A Researcher on Physical deposition techniques for the hydrogen sector

The Centre on Sustainable Energy (SE) supports the development of devices and methods for generating, storing, and distributing energy solutions with low environmental impact. It is done from the perspective of energy sustainability, systems and solutions that respect the environment and the quality of life, and solutions with a lower impact on health and environmental pollution levels. The ground for the Centre on "Sustainable Energy" is based on the Decarbonization targets, which will demand more flexibility of the energy system through new gas and power grids and using energy vectors and storage solutions as enablers for the broad penetration of renewables.

The HYdrogen Technologies and Resilient Energy Systems unit (HyRES)  is a dedicated research and development unit at the forefront of advancing hydrogen technology and resilient energy systems. With a primary focus on Hydrogen, the unit works diligently to innovate the future energy grid, making it more intelligent and capable of integrating renewable sources. Ensuring energy resilience and security is a central goal, particularly in collaboration with industrial partners. Its research encompasses various aspects, including hydrogen production, storage, and final uses, all with the overarching aim of reducing the carbon footprint of energy systems and positively impacting the energy market, making it more sustainable and secure for the future. 

The HYRES unit is involved in several European projects and industrial consultancy concerning the development and characterization activities of low- and high-temperature fuel and electrolyzer cells. Some activities include R&D tasks about deposition and surface functionalization of material for H2 technology (catalyst layer, coated bipolar plate, etc.)

Job Description
HyRES unit is looking for a researcher specialized in materials development and coating technologies, preferably for the H2 sector, who support the projects and activities mentioned above with the following activities:

• Development of innovative materials by Plasma PVD (sputtering)  and PECVD  deposition techniques     
• Materials characterization (XPS, XRD,...)
• Electrochemical characterization of the developed materials
• Identify bias and barriers of SoA components/materials for the H2 sector.
• Produce reports, deliverables, and technical reviews.
• Participate and lead the writing of scientific papers and patents.
• Participate in the preparation of the project's proposal.

  Duration: 24 months