Post-doc Electrocatalysis in alkaline cells for green hydrogen production

The University of Groningen has an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative center of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Balanced study and career paths in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 36,000 students and researchers to develop their own individual talents. Belonging to the best research universities in Europe and joining forces with prestigious partner universities and networks, we are truly an international place of knowledge.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering harbours a kaleidoscope of disciplines and research strengths. Our programmes in research and education range from nanomaterials and biomachinery to astronomy, from mathematics to pharmacy, from neurosciences to computer science, and from molecular and evolutionary biology to marine biology.

The Engineering and Technology institute Groningen (ENTEG) is the engineering science and technology institute of the University of Groningen, the Netherlands. ENTEG research is highly multidisciplinary in nature and focuses on fundamental and applied research on the development of new and innovative processes and products for a wide range of product sectors. Process driven research activities are performed in the field of chemical and biochemical systems, mechanical and electric systems and system networks. Typical product sectors include biobased products, tailored, complex materials such as advanced polymers or polymeric formulations, catalysts, mechatronic devices and software and algorithms. Design, control and modelling and analyses complement the activities.

In the Chemical Engineering group of ENTEG at the University of Groningen, we are looking for a talented and motivated postodoctoral researcher on alkaline water electrolysis. The position is part of the WaviatER, which is a consortium between University of Groningen, DEMCON and several other industrial partners. This project is partially funded by Samenwerkingsverband Noord-Nederland (SNN) and the European Union, aiming to the development of a highly efficient and stable mid-scale alkaline electrolyser to be demonstrated at the Eelde Airport, Groningen. The WaviatER project is expected to play a crucial role for the transformation of the Northern Netherlands to a key region for green hydrogen production. In this context, the postdoc will work at the University of Groningen but in close collaboration with DEMCON, focusing on electrocatalytic materials development, cell validation and characterization as well as evaluation of possible degradation phenomena.

Responsibilities and tasks:

? synthesis and characterization electrode materials for alkaline electrolysis
? fabrication of alkaline cells with targeted characteristics
? validation and stability of the electrochemical cell
? preparation of scientific articles and conference communications
? participation in acquiring additional funds for this research line
? contribution to the scientific and collaborative research environment in Chemical Engineering group and the ENTEG institute.

We are looking for a motivated and skilled researcher with a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Electrochemistry or related disciplines. Background in electrocatalysis, electrochemical characterization techniques (e.g., impedance spectroscopy) and chemical synthesis should be proven. The successful candidate should have a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are mandatory.

We offer you, following the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

• a salary of € 3,420 (salary scale 10) gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 4,490 gross per month for a full-time position (based on experience)
• a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% end-of-the-year allowance
• a full-time position (1.0 FTE) for 1 year.

Candidates are expected to start on 1 September 2022

For information you can contact:

Dr Vasileios Kyriakou, Assistant Professor,   [email protected]

Prof. Paolo P. Pescarmona,   [email protected]

(please do not use the email addresses above for applications)