Cutting-edge Research Opportunity in Hydrogen Electrolysis Technology
Key Ideas
- Cranfield University offers a PhD studentship sponsored by EPSRC and EDF Energy UK, focusing on developing solid oxide electrolysis technologies for hydrogen and sustainable fuel production.
- The project aims to address the overpotential issue in high temperature solid oxide electrolysis cells by developing novel and cost-effective electrocatalysts for improved reaction kinetics.
- The student will gain hands-on experience in renewable energy research, catalyst preparation, and electrochemical engineering, with opportunities for training and industry collaboration.
Cranfield University in the UK is offering a PhD studentship sponsored by EPSRC and EDF Energy UK in the field of hydrogen and sustainable fuel production. The research will concentrate on developing solid oxide electrolysis technologies to convert steam and/or carbon dioxide into hydrogen and sustainable fuels. With the UK's target of achieving Net-Zero by 2050, hydrogen energy is becoming increasingly important. The project will focus on improving the efficiency of high temperature solid oxide electrolysis cells by designing advanced electrocatalysts to enhance reaction kinetics.
The successful applicant will work on lab-scale electrolysis experiments, employ advanced catalyst characterization techniques, and conduct theoretical calculations to understand the relationship between electrode structures and performance. This opportunity will provide valuable experience in cutting-edge renewable energy research and hydrogen technology, as well as exposure to catalyst preparation, characterisation, and electrochemical engineering.
The student will benefit from interdisciplinary training, participate in industry fieldwork, and engage with the hydrogen research group led by Dr. Mingming Zhu. Furthermore, they will have the chance to collaborate with industry partners such as EDF UK and EDF Group in France, gaining exposure to international research facilities. The funding for the studentship includes an annual stipend of £19,237 plus tuition fees and a travel grant of up to £1000 per year for four years. Prospective applicants with a background in related disciplines and a passion for renewable energy are encouraged to apply for this exciting research opportunity.