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Technical University of Denmark
4 days ago
PhD Scholarship in Operando Electron Microscopy of Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells Technical University of Denmark in Denmark
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
The PhD scholarship is a full-time, three-year appointment. Salary and employment terms follow the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and DTU's salary structure for scientific staff. The position is scheduled to start on 1 February 2027, or by mutual agreement.
Deadline
Nov 27, 2026
Country
Denmark
University
Technical University of Denmark
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About this position
Research focus: This three-year PhD project at DTU Energy investigates why solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) gradually lose performance and how switching between electrolysis and fuel-cell modes can eliminate or reverse degradation. The research addresses a major challenge in producing hydrogen and other fuels from renewable electricity.
The doctoral researcher will use operando transmission electron microscopy to observe degradation and recovery inside a working, miniaturised SOEC. Experiments will be performed under controlled gas atmospheres and temperatures up to 900 °C, enabling real-time study of nanoscale processes under realistic cell conditions.
The primary research topics are crack formation and carbon poisoning. Additional investigations will examine cation segregation and contamination migration. The project will connect electrochemical polarisation with microstructural evolution and help clarify the mechanisms behind reversible operation, with findings relevant to the design and operation of future electrolysis systems.
Methods and research environment: The work includes TEM imaging, diffraction, EDS and EELS, analysis of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and other electrochemistry data, and preparation of TEM samples. The researcher will join the collaborative DTU Energy research group, which works on functional materials, components and systems for sustainable energy conversion and storage, including fuel cells, electrolysis, power-to-X, batteries and carbon capture.
The project is supervised by Associate Professor Søren Bredmose Simonsen, with co-supervision from Dr. Xiufu Sun and Professor Søren Højgaard Jensen. An approximately three-month research stay at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology in Seoul is planned. The project is conducted with the industrial partner DynElectro, which is developing commercial products based on reversible operation.
Funding details
The PhD scholarship is a full-time, three-year appointment. Salary and employment terms follow the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and DTU's salary structure for scientific staff. The position is scheduled to start on 1 February 2027, or by mutual agreement.
What's required
Applicants must have a two-year master's degree worth 120 ECTS credits, or an equivalent qualification, in materials science, physics, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant backgrounds include materials characterisation, solid-state chemistry, or electrochemistry. Candidates should be curious about fundamental materials-science questions, comfortable with hands-on experimental laboratory work, and able to communicate clearly in written and spoken English. Prior experience with electron microscopy, electrochemical testing, or solid oxide cell technology is not required, as training is provided. Applicants may apply before completing the master's degree but must receive it before starting.
How to apply
Submit the complete online application through the Apply Now portal by 27 November 2026 at 23:59 Danish time. Attach one PDF in English containing a motivation letter, CV, grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma with grading-scale description, plus a one-page response addressing experience with electrochemistry, solid oxide cells, TEM, SEM and focused ion beam.
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.