Doctoral student in Energy Sciences with focus on fuel cell systems - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Who are we?

The department of Energy Sciences carries out research with breadth and depth on phenomena, mechanisms, components, processes, and systems relevant to the energy area. The research is based on modelling, simulation, and experimental studies, for example in the vehicle area. The Lund vehicle research cluster involves staff from several departments, totalling more than 50 scientists in various energy related fields.

Project description

The project focuses on fuel cell systems for heavy-duty vehicles. Fuel cells powered by renewable hydrogen have the potential to combine energy efficiency and climate neutrality with zero emissions of harmful substances. For the fuel cell to function in the vehicle, it must operate in concert with components like air compressor, turbine, air humidifier, and air cooler. The project aims to develop a model of the fuel cell system including these components. The model is to be implemented in a vehicle model that will be used to optimise system concepts. The research will be carried out in close collaboration with Volvo and Linköping University.

Work duties

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies, which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties will also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20 %).

As the project encompasses several subject areas, we seek candidates who wish to develop new skills, work broadly with system perspectives, and are interested in vehicles. Succesful candidates also have interest in and experience with programming. As a PhD student, you are working under great individual responsibility, with access to supervisors with knowledge of relevant subject areas. During your research education, you are developing skills that are in demand, not only in your research subject but also in project management, scientific methodology and other general competencies.

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if the applicant:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Energy Sciences if the applicant has:

• at least 90 credits in the subject of the third-cycle programme, of which at least 60 credits from second-cycle courses of relevance to the subject, and 30 credits from a second-cycle degree project of relevance to the subject.
• a Master’s degree of relevance to the field.

Additional requirements:

• Good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Relevant knowledge of thermo and fluid dynamics.

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily based on academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study.
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills.
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

It is further qualifying if you have:

• Experience of programming, especially in Matlab / Simulink.
• Basic knowledge of processes in fuel cells, such as electrochemistry.
• Knowledge of electrical engineering.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

 Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).