PhD. position 1: In-situ characterization of electrodes using novel SPM methods
In-situ, high temperature scanning probe microscope (SPM) measurements on solid oxide fuel cell electrodes is a new method with many perspectives for a more profound understanding of the details of the fuel cell processes, including identifying the obstacles for the ion transfer. The CAHT-SPM (controlled atmosphere high temperature scanning probe microscope, working from 20 C to 750 C) will be regularly upgraded to meet the demands occurring during the SERC project. DME Danish Micro Engineering A/S, which constructed the innovative CAHT-SPM at Risø, will co-supervise the study of the effects of contact pressure and radius of curvature of single particle electrode materials on the electrochemical reaction resistance.

Ph.D. position 2: Inexpensive electrocatalysts for O2 reduction
The objective is to search for new materials with good electrocatalytical activities using DFT (density functional theory) combined with experiments of synthesizing and testing identified candidates; such materials may replace noble metals like Pt for use in fuel cell electrodes. The work will involve both low and high temperature fuel cells. The materials will be characterized by conductivity relaxation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and tested practically at IRD A/S.

Ph.D. position 3: New inexpensive materials for robust oxygen sensor electrodes
Many potential applications of special O2 sensors may suffer from short lifetime (evaporation, poisoning) and high costs of electrode materials (e.g. Pt). Therefore, a study of perovskite structured oxides of the types SrTiO3, LaCrO3 and LaMnO3 with suitable dopant type and level will be performed, and the most promising compositions will be tested by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy over time in harsh realistic conditions. The materials will be characterized using electrical and structural characterization tools such impedance spectroscopy and high resolution electron microscopy. Also, the best suited materials will be tested in various sensor configurations such as the classical potentiometric oxygen zirconia sensor and in real applications. PBI-Dansensor A/S will perform practical tests on the best performing materials.

PhD. position 4: Surface compositions and structures of clean materials for solid oxide electrochemical cells
It is well known that surfaces and interfaces usually do not have the same structure and composition as the bulk, and impurities tend to accumulate on them. It is also well known that variation of surface impurity levels may change the reaction rate by at least a factor of 10 even in cases where the best performing surfaces are not totally clean. This study focuses on fabricating extremely clean surfaces in order to see how fast the electrochemical processes may proceed when such impurities are eliminated. The materials will be prepared and cleaned under UHV conditions where also characterization with surface sensitive methods is available. The efficiency of the well defined oxides will be characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

More on: http://risoe-staged.risoe.dk/Job_career.aspx

All are 3-year positions.
The salary is app. 3000 Euro/month

Please send an application containing:

• a formal application stating why you are interested and qualified for this position
• CV incl. references
• University diplomas and grade transcripts

to karin.vels@risoe.dk

Requirements:

• Education as an engineer, physicist or chemist
• Ability to work independently, to plan and carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a large, dynamical group
• Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken
• For position 4 : preferably experience with UHV and surface science

Contact:
Karin Hansen
P.O.Box 49
Roskilde, Denmark 4000

Phone: +45 4677 5796