PhD in Modelling and Experiments on PEM Electrolysis

At the Faculty of Engineering and Science, AAU Energy, a position as PhD stipend is available within the general study program. The stipend is open for appointment from August 1st or soon hereafter. The duration of the position is three years. Your work tasks As a PhD student in modelling and experiments on PEM water electrolysis, you will work at the intersection of chemical and electrochemical reactor engineering, with a particular emphasis on electrolysis. The project focuses on testing proton exchange membrane electrolysis cells, characterising their electrochemical performance and developing detailed electrochemical cell models.

You will design and carry out experiments on single cells, analyse electrochemical behaviour under different operating conditions and use the resulting data to build, calibrate and validate mechanistic models that describe transport, kinetics and degradation phenomena.

The position is offered in relation to the research group "Hydrogen and Electro Fuels" and the PhD Student will be positioned to the section for Thermal Engineering.

Your competencies The PhD project is carried out in the context of the CYCLOPEM, ROAD2X and CAPEX projects, which provide access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities and collaboration with academic and industrial partners.

You are expected to participate in project meetings and to present your results at international conferences and workshops. In addition, you will contribute to teaching activities within courses on chemical and electrochemical reactors and take part in the daily activities of the Hydrogen and Electro Fuels research group at AAU Energy, including group meetings, seminars and joint publications.

The applicant must have a relevant professional and/or educational background within thermal, chemical and electrochemical engineering. Modelling of chemical and electrochemical reactor and LCA. Qualification requirements PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1124 of September 19, 2025 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions.

The department is located in both Aalborg and Esbjerg, and this position is based at the Aalborg campus. English is widely used as the working language in research and teaching, which makes it straightforward for international colleagues to integrate.

We offer access to advanced laboratory and workshop facilities and an environment where you can develop your academic profile through research, teaching and collaboration with both Danish and international external partners. As a workplace we value a collegial and inclusive culture with room for professional discussion, initiative and mutual support in everyday life. New colleagues, whether they come from elsewhere in Denmark or from abroad, can draw on the universitys support services related to relocation, housing and practical matters.

You can read more about AAU Energy at www.energy.aau.dk. How to apply Your application must include the following:

• Application, stating reasons for applying and qualifications in relation to the position

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Diplomas (bachelor's and master's degree diploma, including grades)

• Project description (4-5 pages), that: describes the applicants initial thoughts and ideas related to the specific project applied for. This includes a brief state-of-the-art (including short list of references), a time schedule and how the applicant intends to shed light on the project objectives.

• Other relevant documents

The application must be submitted via Aalborg Universitys recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg University's website.

Aalborg University wants to reflect the surrounding society and has diversity as a core value. Therefore, everyone, regardless of personal background and orientation, is encouraged to apply for the position. Do you have any questions? If you have any questions about the position, you are more than welcome to contact us. You will find contact persons at the bottom of the jobpost.

Selected candidates will be invited for an interview. Interviews are expected to be held during the month of June. Further information Read more about our recruitment process here.

The assessment of candidates for the position will be carried out by qualified experts. Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the application deadline, the head of the department, with the assistance of the hiring committee, will select the applicants to be assessed. All applicants will be informed whether they have been shortlisted for assessment or not.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace. Read more about The Doctoral School of Engineering and Science

When pursuing a PhD at Aalborg University, you'll receive a stipend which includes both salary and pension benefits. The base salary starts at a minimum of 31.242,75 DKK before taxes, with an additional 18,07% added for pension contributions. However, the final salary can be negotiated based on your qualifications and experience, with seniority playing a key role in determining the main salary. Read more about pension options here.

At Aalborg University's Doctoral School, engineering PhD students enjoy unique career development opportunities. These include personalized DISC profile assessments with feedback, career-focused courses, and networking events with trade unions, employers, and other relevant parties. Learn more about these initiatives at our Career Hub.

Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement) (in Danish) There is a mutual probationary period of 3 months for the position.