Postdoc position in Metal Hydride Development

The department of Materials Design in the Institute of Hydrogen Technology at Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, invites applications for a Postdoc position, in the computational modelling of metal hydrides for solid-state hydrogen storage as part of a joint project between several prestigous German research institutions.

The position is initially limited to 32 months (starting as soon as possible). Equal opportunity is an important part of our personnel policy. We would therefore strongly encourage qualified women to apply for the position. In principle, the full time position (39 h/week) is also sharable.

The overall aim of the project is the computational modelling, synthesis, characterization, and optimization of room‑temperature metal hydride materials for hydrogen storage generated from secondary sources. The findings of this project serve as the foundation for development of environmentally friendly, sustainable and cost‑effective materials for greenhouse‑gas emission‑free energy storage applications.

The position entails the development and utilization of a computational framework based on the phase‑field methodology for mesoscale simulations of room‑temperature metal hydride materials. Important aspects to be studied computationally are hydrogen absorption/​desorption kinetics, nucleation as well as material aging. The candidate needs to effectively communicate and collaborate with the other projects partner who will provide experimental data for model adjustment and validation as well as atomistic simulations to inform the underlying thermodynamic model.

For further information about the project and the partners of the network, please contact

Dr. Paul Jerabek

A MSc degree and PhD degree in chemistry, physics, materials science or related fields with a strong focus on computational investigations is required. Experiences in Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) using mesoscale simulations via phase‑field methodology as well as good understanding of thermodynamic modelling utilizing CALPHAD are highly desirable. Familiarity of CALPHAD integration into kinetic models and programming skills (for example in C++) would be a plus. Knowledge of atomistic simulations utilizing DFT and knowledge in metal hydrides and/or hydrogen technology are an additional advantage. Appropriate presentation, communication, and writing skills are expected.

Opportunities:
Regular in‑person exchanges with the collaborating partners are planned. Furthermore, the applicant will have the chance to visit hydrogen technology related scientific training workshops, complementary skills seminars at Hereon, and is expected to present scientific results at international conferences.

• an exciting and varied job in a research centre with more than 1,000 employees from around 60 nations
• a well‑connected research campus and best networking opportunities individual opportunities for further training
• social benefits according to the collective agreement of the public service and remuneration
• an excellent technical infrastructure and modern workplace equipment
• 6 weeks holiday per year; company holidays between Christmas and New Year's Day
• very good compatibility of private and professional life through offers of mobile and flexible work
• family-friendly company policy with childcare facilities, e.g. nursery close to the company
• free assistance program for employees (EAP)
• Corporate Benefits
• a varied offer in the canteen on campus

Severely disabled persons and those equaling severely disabled persons who are equally suitable for the position will be considered preferentially within the framework of legal requirements.

Interested?
Then we are looking forward to receiving your comprehensive application documents (cover letter, CV, transcripts, certificates, etc.) indicating the reference number 2024/WT 2 until June 23rd, 2024.

Apply now!