PhD Position to Pioneer the Future of Sustainable Heating: Integrating Fuel Cell and Heat Pump

The challenge

The key challenge we all privately face on our way to a sustainable future is the provision of domestic heating during winter and efficiently using the high solar energy gains received during the summer period.

In collaboration with industry partners and the Technical University of Darmstadt, we push forward the development of new heat exchanges that efficiently utilize the otherwise wasted thermal energy of fuel cells. The cogeneration of electricity and heat can make our homes independent from the electric grid, also solving grid constraint problems.

Your participation in this Ph.D. project is more than just an academic pursuit — it is a chance to contribute to a pivotal shift towards energy independence and sustainability, shaping the future of our society.

During your Ph.D. journey, you will, as a first step, work on a one-dimensional model for a domestic heating solution, including the combination of an air-source heat pump and a fuel cell. Therein, the focus lies on the efficient utilization of the fuel cell’s waste heat. In the second step, you will design and numerically evaluate the components that thermally connect the heat pump and fuel cell. In the last stage of your Ph.D. thesis, you will be working on a prototype system installed at the University of Twente.

You will work in close collaboration with international research institutions and companies, defining design requirements and working on a numerical model for flow path optimization. The goal is to develop a prototype demonstrating the potential for hot water production directly from the fuel cell above the typical temperature ranges, opening new avenues for decentralized power generation and heating systems. The knowledge and experience gained from this position will place you at the forefront of sustainable energy research and technology.

Your role

• Collaborate closely with esteemed international partners, defining design requirements and pushing the boundaries of sustainable energy solutions
• Pioneer the development of an avant-garde numerical model for flow path optimization, driving the transformation of fuel cell technology
• Embark on the thrilling challenge of creating a groundbreaking prototype that showcases the potential for hot water production directly from the fuel cell, surpassing typical temperature ranges
• Empower the world with decentralized power generation and heating systems, charting a path towards a more sustainable and self-reliant future.

If you are a talented and motivated individual looking to make a real difference in the world, then apply for this Ph.D. research position today and join our team. Together, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy efficiency in the built environment and create a sustainable future for generations to come.

To apply for this Ph.D. research position, you can apply by March 28th, 2024, by clicking the ‘apply now’ button below. Please include:

• A cover letter of at most 1 page A4 explaining specific interests, the motivation for the application, and why you qualify for this position
• Your updated CV, including contact information for at least two academic references
• Copies of your academic transcripts from your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
• Title and abstract of your Master’s project/thesis
• A one-page proposal outlining your approach to optimizing the cooling of a fuel cell electrode, including the foreseen methodology.
• Any additional supporting documents, such as publications or research experience

Note: The applications that do not include all required materials will not be considered.

Note: We reserve the right to close the application process early should we identify a suitable candidate before the deadline

Please ensure that your application is submitted by the deadline. The first round of interviews is scheduled between April 2nd and April 12th. A possible second round of interviews will be scheduled when needed.

In the Department of Thermal and Fluid Engineering, we are committed to driving the transition to sustainable energy systems. As one of the most pressing issues of our time, we are dedicated to developing reliable, efficient, and low-emission power and heating solutions. Our focus lies in harnessing the potential of green solutions, such as hydrogen, and optimizing heat recovery in fuel cell systems. By doing so, we aim to contribute to a better and more sustainable future for future generations.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.