Johan Hjelm

This PhD position is part of the MSCA Doctoral Network 'SPACER', which focuses on developing innovative porous electrode architectures to enhance current density and energy efficiency in redox flow batteries (RFBs). The project aims to enable affordable and durable long-duration energy storage by optimizing complex material layers for specific battery chemistries and flow phenomena, from the microscale upwards. The research will involve the use of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and complementary characterization techniques to provide detailed performance analysis of newly developed hierarchical porous carbon electrodes. Advanced data analysis methods, such as Distribution of Diffusion Times, will be employed to gain insights into mass transfer and microstructural effects. The technologies developed will be validated in both half-cells and full working batteries at industrial partners, reaching Technology Readiness Level 6. The successful candidate will collaborate with network partners and participate in 3-6 month secondments abroad, working alongside an international team of 17 doctoral candidates based at universities and industrial firms across Europe. The project offers extensive professional and personal development opportunities, including training and mentorship from two SPACER project mentors. The candidate will acquire skills at the interface of modelling and prototyping electrode materials, with a focus on spectroscopical and electrochemical characterization at multiple scales. The expectation is to complete a PhD thesis and disseminate results through patents, peer-reviewed publications, and conference presentations. The Department of Energy Conversion and Storage (DTU Energy) at the Technical University of Denmark is a leading research center in sustainable energy technologies, including fuel cells, electrolysis, batteries, and carbon capture. DTU offers a dynamic, international environment with a commitment to academic excellence, inclusivity, and societal impact. The position is fully funded for three years under the MSCA Doctoral Network, with salary and terms based on the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations' collective agreement. Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree or equivalent in Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields, and must not have resided in Denmark for more than 12 months in the past three years. Excellent English communication skills and an aptitude for experimental research and data analysis are required; programming and mathematical modelling experience is advantageous. Applications must be submitted online by 30 November 2025, including all required documents in English as a single PDF file. For further information, contact Prof. Johan Hjelm ([email protected]).