Postdoc for Modelling and Simulation (Digital Twin) of Electrochemical CO2 and H2O Reduction - DTU Chemical Engineering

We offer you a unique opportunity to join the “Pioneer Center for Accelerating P2X Materials Discovery” (CAPeX) and the Department of Chemical Engineering in the development of a modelling and simulation tool of devices for electrochemical reduction of CO2 and H2O. These processes are expected to become an instrumental part of a sustainable society. Electrolyzers will need to interact with the overall energy system, including the fluctuating supply of electricity from wind turbines and solar cells and so dynamic operation is required. The focus will be on processes operating at low temperature where water is liquid while the pressure may be elevated. The candidate will interact with researchers in CAPeX performing experimental studies of the reactions and supply data for model validation. You will be based both at the CAPeX center building at DTU, and at DTU Chemical Engineering, at the CHEC research group in a dynamic international research environment.

Responsibilities and qualifications
More specifically the position will involve the following tasks:

• Literature study of phenomena and device modelling liquid phase alkaline/acidic/neutral CO2 and H2O (co)electrolysis
• Selection of device geometry and features
• Development of dynamic and steady state models (digital twin) including relevant phenomena such as: CO2 crossover; Salting out; Selectivity to various products depending on electrode materials; Micro-kinetics for the electrode reactions versus Butler-Volmer kinetics; Influence of operating temperature, pressure and flow rate; Side-products in the liquid; Gas diffusion layer thickness and porosity; Membrane/diaphragm thickness; Model validation through comparison to experimental data from the literature and through collaboration with experimentalists in CAPeX; Application of the model in what-if analysis for process improvements; Dynamic operation against the grid.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). The candidate preferably has a degree within chemical engineering or possibly chemistry/physics and must have documented deep knowledge/experience in mathematical modeling of chemical/electrochemical processes/reactors. The candidate must be self-paced and highly ambitious with very good skills to collaborate with other CAPeX researchers.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is for 2 years and the starting date is as soon as possible.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Anker Degn Jensen: +45 22 17 17 23, aj@kt.dtu.dk.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 31 July 2024 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

At DTU Chemical Engineering it is our mission to develop and utilize knowledge, methods, technologies and sustainable solutions within: Chemical and biochemical process engineering and production, Design of chemical and biochemical products and processes, Energy and environment,  You can read more about DTU Chemical Engineering at www.kt.dtu.dk/english.