Luise Theil Kuhn

This PhD project at DTU Energy , Technical University of Denmark, focuses on one of the central durability challenges in green hydrogen production: understanding how solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) degrade and how some of that degradation can be reversed during reversible operation. The student will use operando transmission electron microscopy to observe a miniaturised SOEC while it operates under gas atmospheres and temperatures up to 900 °C. The goal is to watch nanoscale changes as electrochemical polarisation is applied and then reversed, linking the direction of operation to microstructural evolution. The project is especially interested in mechanisms such as crack formation, carbon poisoning, cation segregation, and contamination migration. The work combines advanced microscopy with electrochemistry and materials analysis, including imaging, diffraction, EDS, EELS, and analysis of electrochemical test data. The project is embedded in DTU Energy’s collaborative environment, where research spans functional materials and sustainable energy conversion and storage. The student will work closely with a main supervisor and co-supervisors, and the project also includes a planned research stay at Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul , to support sample preparation and international collaboration. The broader research context is the reversible-operation concept being developed with industrial partner DynElectro, aiming to improve the lifetime and commercial viability of SOEC technology. The project connects fundamental nanoscale materials science with an industry-relevant energy application.

PhD research position available in STEM education , digital twins , and neutron-based investigation at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) in collaboration with the University of Copenhagen and European Spallation Source ERIC . The project is part of the ACCESS initiative, Augmenting the STEM classroom by ESS digital twins , and is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation . The research focus is on how to train university students for neutron-based investigation at ESS in Lund and how students learn through digital twins as an alternative to hands-on training. This opportunity is especially relevant for candidates interested in didactics of STEM education , science education, and the use of digital technologies in teaching and learning. The post highlights collaboration across DTU Energy, DTU Physics, the Niels Bohr Institute, the Department of Science Education at the University of Copenhagen, and ESS ERIC. It is a PhD opening ; no deadline is stated in the post excerpt. Interested applicants should review the official DTU job page and the linked project information for full eligibility criteria and application instructions.

This PhD position at DTU Energy offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development and implementation of a focusing neutron optics prototype. The project aims to address the flux limitations in neutron scattering and imaging studies by creating a nested Wolter condenser, inspired by X-ray thin film technology used in NASA and ESA telescopes. The consortium includes DTU Energy, DTU Physics, CHEXS, the European Spallation Source (ESS), and the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), working together to transfer advanced X-ray optics technology to neutron applications. The successful candidate will focus on characterizing the neutron optical properties of individual mirrors, assembling them in Wolter geometry, and evaluating the prototype neutron condenser module fabricated by CHEXS. The research involves a diverse suite of experimental methods, including in-house X-ray reflectometry, micro-CT, transmission electron microscopy, and neutron reflectometry and imaging at international large-scale facilities such as PSI and ESS. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate the functionality of the neutron focusing optics by imaging real samples, such as monitoring the fast charge-discharge cycles of Li-ion batteries in real time. Applicants should possess strong competences in solid state physics, materials science, solid state chemistry, or similar fields. Experience with experimental setups, laboratory work, data analysis using Python or similar, and optics or reflectometry for X-rays and/or neutrons is required. Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken, personal drive, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively are essential. A two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or equivalent is mandatory. The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of DTU's general degree programmes. DTU Energy is internationally recognized for excellence in research, education, innovation, and scientific advice, with a focus on functional materials, components, and systems for sustainable energy technologies. The department has strong expertise in electrochemistry, atomic scale and multi-physics modelling, materials processing, and structural analyses, and is committed to educating engineering students at all levels. The position is full-time, with a 3-year employment period. Salary and appointment terms are based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations, and the allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The starting date is 1 August 2026 or as mutually agreed. DTU offers a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment, striving for academic excellence and collegial respect. Applications must be submitted online by 17 April 2026. The application should include a cover letter, CV, grade transcripts, diploma, and contact information for two references, all in English and combined into one PDF file. For further information, contact Professor Luise Theil Kuhn at [email protected]. Additional details about DTU Energy and the application process can be found at https://www.energy.dtu.dk/ . DTU is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, disability, race, religion, or ethnic background. The university conducts open-source background checks for positions related to critical technology. DTU develops technology for people, aiming to solve global challenges and create value for society through science and engineering.