Postdoc in hydrogen fuel cell technology for drones

We are searching for a self-propelled and innovative postdoctoral researcher for a project in the area of novel hydrogen fuel cell technology for uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones. This postdoctoral position offers you the opportunity • to join an inclusive and creative research team based in beautiful Western Sweden; • contribute to an interdisciplinary research synergising chemistry, mechanical engineering, and robotics; • and, to cultivate an international network across different disciplines of academia and industry. Information about the department and research groups  This position is a joint appointment between the Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences and the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology. The Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences is highly diverse, with close links to the automotive, aerospace and maritime industry in Gothenburg. Among a range of fundamental and applied research in these areas, we have a strong focus on sustainable aviation. You will be joining an emerging research group, led by Dr. Arion Pons in the Division of Fluid Dynamics, and will have the opportunity to contribute to a pioneering new focus on uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) within the Department. The Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering is the largest department of 13 at Chalmers, with approximately 320 employees in four research divisions. We tackle global challenges in the areas of health, energy, sustainability and transport by developing new knowledge and enabling technologies in the areas of nano- and materials science and chemical production methods. You will be joining a well-established research group, led by Dr. Anders Palmqvist in the Division of Applied Chemistry, with significant experience in the development of new materials for energy and environmental applications, with a focus on fuel cells and electrical storage. Major responsibilities Your major responsibilities will be to perform and publish scientific and engineering research. Research areas are likely to include the design and prototyping of micro-reactors for chemical hydrogen generation aboard very small UAVs; the development of customised membrane-electrode assemblies (MEAs) for UAV fuel cells; and the characterization of fuel cell performance in test stations and via UAV flight tests. You will be guided by senior researchers in the involved departments, and will be expected to communicate the results of your research verbally at leading conferences and in writing in international journals. Qualifications To qualify for the position, you should have a PhD in a relevant subject—including chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, robotics, and others. Ordinarily, your PhD should have been awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline (according to the current agreement with the Swedish Agency for Government Employers), but exceptional candidates with a PhD outside this date, and candidates who are anticipating the PhD award in the near future, will also be considered. We are specifically looking for candidates with experience and/or interest in one or more of the following areas: • Chemical hydrogen storage technology, g., metal hydrides, formic acid. • Chemical reactor design, particularly for small scales (< 200 mL). • Polymer-electrolyte membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cells, particularly full stack design and characterisation • Robotics, particularly small-scale (~20 cm) quadcopters. Other factors that will be highly regarded include the capability to conduct interdisciplinary research (in any area); good oral and written communication skills in English; a demonstrated ability to contribute to the positive and inclusive outlook within a research group; and a flair for design innovation. Contract terms This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for 2 years.  We offer Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees. Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers. Application procedure The application should be marked with Ref 20240515 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files. CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including: • CV, including complete list of publications • Previous teaching and pedagogical experiences • Two references that we can contact. Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number) One page where you: • Introduce yourself • Describe how your previous research makes you well-suited to this position Other documents: • Copies of relevant educational certificates. Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Application deadline: 20-10-2024   For questions, please contact: Assistant Professor Arion Pons, Division of Fluid Dynamics, arion@chalmers.se  Professor Anders Palmqvist, Division of Applied Chemistry, anders.palmqvist@chalmers.se *** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***   Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society. Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.