PhD Position Hydrogen-based Novel Flow Battery Technology

PhD Position Hydrogen-based Novel Flow Battery Technology What will be the new generation of batteries for long-duration energy storage?

Energy storage is an indispensable factor for bridging the electricity consumption with the intermittent renewable energy supply. With increasing supply of renewable electricity in our energy mix, and electrification across industrial, transport, commercial, and residential sectors strains existing grid infrastructure, electricity storage is required to prevent congestion and transmission bottlenecks. This energy storage is required at a broad range of timescales. While technology is available for the short to medium timescales, very little technology is available to store electricity efficiently to cover durations of 25+ hours. In that light, we started the collaborative research project REDOX BLEND, performed at seven Dutch universities and knowledge institutes (TU Delft, RUG, UTwente, TU/Eindhoven, U Nijmegen, DIFFER, TNO) to develop next generation batteries for ultra-long-duration energy storage. This project will focus on the development of inorganic, hydrogen-based flow batteries, for high power density and energy density. Among these is the hydrogen-iodine flow battery. This battery type has fast kinetics and recent work demonstrated that an electrolyte with high pH and co-solvent can achieve high iodine solubility and high open circuit voltage. However, this battery type is in early stage of development. Further analysis is required, including studying the configuration of such alkaline H2-I2 battery and longer- term stability. Results will be compared and merged with developments in other flow battery chemistries, developed at other universities and industrial partners (Aquabattery, Elestor, Ore Energy) in this project. We're looking for a candidate with an excellent performance in BSc/MSc studies, with knowledge about electrochemistry and experience in performing laboratory experiments. For this vacancy, we're looking for a candidate with strong engineering skills (rather than materials science or fundamental electrochemistry), to demonstrate this technology at stack level. The candidate should also have a pro-active mindset and good skills to collaborate in with partners in the project and allow to evaluate this technology for ultra-long energy storage from multiple angles.

We’re looking for a candidate with: A MSc degree, in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, applied chemistry, applied physics or similar Experience in working with energy technology Proven experimental skills Knowledge in engineering or process technology An excellent grade list Pro-active and creative mind-set Fluent in English. Speaking Dutch is a plus Starting date in Q4 2026

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service , offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

This PhD position offers: Challenging job in a highly innovative technology field Embedding in an enthusiastic team of engineers and researchers Collaboration with industrial partners A position with funding for 4 years

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference. For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future. At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers. Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.