Postdoc in thermodynamics of hydrogen and its mixtures

Introduction

We need to transform our fossil-based society and industry into a sustainable energy system. Green hydrogen is an indispensable part of that transition. In collaboration with government agencies and other knowledge institutes, we are developing innovations for large-scale storage of green hydrogen.

Job Description

This research project is part of GroenvermogenNL (https://groenvermogennl.org/en/), a comprehensive innovation programme established and funded by the Dutch government to accelerate the introduction of green hydrogen. You will investigate the thermodynamics of hydrogen and its mixtures that occur when hydrogen is stored in underground depleted gas fields. During withdrawal, the pure hydrogen may be contaminated with natural gas and water vapor. When cycling (injecting and producing) hydrogen mixtures, pressure and temperature differences occur in the reservoir and at the wellbore that could induce phase changes, e.g., the formation of liquid water. Therefore, the thermodynamic behavior (Vapor-Liquid Equilibrium) of these hydrogen mixtures should be quantified. This is done in an existing Pulse Expansion Wave Tube, that has the capability to measure water droplet formation under extreme conditions (rapid pressure and temperature decrease). The research encompasses multiple aspects such as

• Literature study on relevant gas mixtures, including hydrogen, natural gas, higher hydrocarbons, and water fractions, and including equations of state (EOS),
• Prepare desired gas mixtures using an existing Gas Mixture Preparation Device,
• Design and perform Pulse Expansion Wave experiments to quantify the thermodynamics properties of hydrogen and its mixtures (e.g. with natural gas),
• Evaluate, report, and publish your results in (inter)national literature and at consortium and stakeholder meetings.

The position is in the Energy Technology Section (https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-groups/energy-technology) of the Department of Mechanical Engineering of Eindhoven University of Technology. You will be part of the large GroenvermogenNL consortium that comprises a broad range of industrial partners, knowledge institutes, universities and universities of Applied Sciences. In your project, you will have interactions with stakeholders such as Gasunie, EBN, Nobian, Shell, TNO, Deltares, and Utrecht and Delft Universities.

Job Requirements

• Motivated researcher, with a PhD in experimental physics, or a comparable domain.
• Ability to conduct high quality academic research, reflected in demonstratable outputs.
• A team player who enjoys coaching PhD and Master students and working in a dynamic, interdisciplinary team.
• A proven ability to manage complex projects to completion on schedule.
• Excellent (written and verbal) proficiency in English, good communication and leadership skills.

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for 2 years.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. € 4,241 max. € 5,538).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is a leading international university within the Brainport region where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? For questions about the project content, contact Prof. David Smeulders (d.m.j.smeulders@tue.nl).

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services (HRServices.me@tue.nl).

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application using the apply-button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• List of up to five self-selected ‘best publications’.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. Please note that incomplete applications may not be considered and could be rejected.

We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.