Doctoral scholarship holder electrocatalysis, with a focus on hydrogen production from water electrolysis

Let’s shape the future - University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20 000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape. 

The research group ELCAT in the Faculty of Applied Engineering is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of electrocatalysis, with a focus on hydrogen production from water electrolysis.

As researcher you will start within the research group ELCAT, currently employing around 30 people. The research of ELCAT revolves around electrochemistry. The main research activities are related to the development of state-of-the-art electrochemical reactors and catalyst, with as most important purpose the electrification of the industry and thus the replacement of traditional chemical processes with green and sustainable alternatives. The research falls mainly under 5 key activities: (1) electrochemical CO₂ conversion; (2) green hydrogen production; (3) redox flow batteries; (4) power to chemicals; and (5) reactor design for electrochemical purposes.

Position

• You will work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of electrochemical reactor engineering. Electrochemistry is gaining more and more attention as a potential alternative to several traditional industrial processes because of its positive impact on global greenhouse gas emissions (mainly CO₂), its ability to store periodic renewable energy and the production of alternative energy sources such as H₂. More specifically you will actively participate in the design, development and/or testing of efficient electrocatalysts, membranes and/or electrodes for water electrolysis with a focus on improving the energy efficiency and the productivity.
• You will compete for externally funded research grants.
• You will publish scientific articles and/or patents related to the research project.
• As a PhD student of ELCAT you also support a part of the general research and teaching tasks to support the good day-to-day functioning of the research group and the Faculty of Applied Engineering.
• You are also responsible for safety in the research labs, in particular with regard to chemicals.

Profile

• You hold a Master’s degree in industrial science/applied engineering: chemistry (industrial engineer), Master's degree in engineering: chemistry or materials science (civil engineering), Master in chemistry or equivalent through experience or you will have obtained it by the time you start work.
• You can demonstrate excellent study results.
• Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
• You are enthusiast.
• You can communicate well, both in speaking and in writing.
• You are strong in planning and organizing, you can work independently.
• You don’t forget about safety and you have some good technical skills.

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of 1 year. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed for another three years.
• The planned start date is as soon as possible.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for Contract Research Staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP).
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy until May 7^th 2024 through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform. Click on the 'Apply' button, complete the online application form and be sure to include the following attachments: a motivation letter, your academic CV.
• The selection committee will review all of the applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision has been made, we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Nick Daems and/or Prof. dr. Tom Breugelmans or via elcat@uantwerpen.be.

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.