PhD Stipend in Improved SOEC Durability using Dynamic Electrothermal Balanced Operation

Aalborg University contributes to the knowledge building of the global society as well as the development of prosperity, welfare and culture of Danish society. This is accomplished through research, research-based education, public sector services and knowledge collaboration. AAU educates students for the future and activities are based on a dynamic and transformative collaboration with the surrounding community. 

AAU Energy is a dynamic engineering research department in continuous growth and inspiring surroundings. AAU Energy has a very international environment and covers all areas of clean and sustainable energy systems of the future within electrical, thermal and mechatronic energy technology. AAU Energy has campuses in both Aalborg and Esbjerg, this position is located in Aalborg. 

The mission is to be world leading in both research and research-based education of the energy engineers of the future. AAU Energy has approx. 300 employees of many nationalities, of which 25 are administrative staff. In addition, AAU Energy constantly has approx. 50-70 guest researchers from around the world. 

Research and teaching are in the absolute world elite in the field of energy, and we have extensive and leading workshop and laboratory facilities, where research and innovation are carried out in direct collaboration with industry to a great extent. 

The position is offered in relation to the research program" Electro-Fuels" and the Postdoc will be positioned to the section for“Thermal Engineering”.

Research areas will be within CAPeX which is a 13-year and 300 MDKK“Pioneer Center for Accelerating P2X Materials Discovery”, funded by Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science, the Danish National Research Foundation, the Carlsberg Foundation, the Lundbeck Foundation, the Novo Nordisk Foundation, and the Villum Foundation. CAPeX is hosted by the Technical University of Denmark(DTU) and co-hosted by Aalborg University(AAU), and unites leading experts from DTU, AAU, University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, and the University of Southern Denmark with international partners from Stanford University, Utrecht University, and the University of Toronto to form a truly Pioneering Center on P2X. You can read more about the CAPeX research themes and X-trails, our organization, and the other open PhD and postdoc cohort positions athttp://www.capex-p2x.com .

The solid oxide electrolysis cell technology offers unmatched efficiencies but are prone to degradation at high current densities. Experimental results show that overlaying the constant current with and alternating one(AC:DC) can significantly extend the lifetime of the cells, facilitating a faster transition to more efficient technologies. In this project, you will build a model of the SOEC cells, obtain fundamental understanding of the processes increasing the lifetime. With this, you will construct a multi-scale model ranging from materials to systems models, collaborating with a team of experts developing this approach for various technologies. The target is to predict the techno-economic optimal operating conditions for a system utilising the AC:DC mode of operation.

The applicant must provide and upload a proper project description, which describes the applicants initial thoughts and ideas related to the specific project applied for. This includes a brief state-of-the-art(including short list of references), a time schedule and how the applicant intends to shed light on the project objectives. The project description should have a length of not more than 4-5 pages.

The successful candidate will work closely with the students and people in the CAPeX X-trail X2“Liquid Fuels for Aviation and Maritime Applications”, and with colleagues at SUNERGY focusing on study and design of complex and heterogeneous(electro)catalysts using integrated experiments. 

The successful candidate will have obtained excellent grades in his/her Bachelor and Master educations. Background in experimental and theoretical electrochemistry and/or material science is preferred. Moreover, knowledge of materials science through university level courses or project work is preferred. Furthermore, the candidate should be highly motivated and willing to work in a team. Good communication skills in both spoken and written English are  requirements 

You may obtain further professional information from Professor Søren Højgaard Jensen,+45 2132 7932,[email protected] . 

Please do not send applications to this e-mail address, instead apply online as described below.

When applying, you must indicate if you have also applied for other positions in the 2023 CAPeX cohort call. When relevant, you are encouraged to do so, and please indicate which positions you have applied for.

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link"Apply online", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

•  A letter motivating the application(cover letter)
•  Curriculum vitae
•  Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
•  Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system(see guidelines and Excel spreadsheet here)
•  Publications(if applicable)

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. You may apply prior to obtaining your PhD's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Read more about AAU at www.aau.dk.
Read more about the AAU Energy at www.energy.aau.dk.
Read more about the CAPeX Pioneer Centerhttp://www.capex-p2x.com .

PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1039 of August 27, 2013 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time.

Shortlisting will be applied. This means that subsequent to the deadline for applications the head of department supported by the chair of the assessment committee will select candidates for assessment. All applicants will be informed whether they will be assessed or not.

For further information about stipends and salary as well as practical issues concerning the application procedure contact Ms. Lisbeth Diinhoff, The Doctoral School at The Faculty of Engineering and Science, email:[email protected] , phone:+45 9940 9589.

For more information of The Doctoral School of Engineering and Science:www.phd.engineering.aau.dk  

The application is only to be submitted online by using the"Apply online" button below.

AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

Appointment and salary as a PhD fellow are according to the Ministry of Finance Circular of 15 December 2021 on the Collective Agreement for Academics in Denmark, Appendix 5, regarding PhD fellows, and with the current Circular of 11 December 2019 on the employment structure at Danish universities.