PhD Position Hydrogen-based Novel Flow Battery Technology

What will be the new generation of batteries for long-duration energy storage?

Job description

Energy storage is an indispensable factor for bridging electricity consumption with intermittent renewable energy supply. With increasing supply of renewable electricity in our energy mix, and electrification across industrial, transport, commercial, and residential sectors straining existing grid infrastructure, electricity storage is required to prevent congestion and transmission bottlenecks. This storage is needed across a broad range of timescales. While technology is available for the short to medium timescales, very little technology is available to store electricity efficiently for durations of 25+ hours.

In that light, the collaborative research project REDOX BLEND was started at seven Dutch universities and knowledge institutes (TU Delft, RUG, UTwente, TU/Eindhoven, U Nijmegen, DIFFER, TNO) to develop next-generation batteries for ultra-long-duration energy storage.

This project focuses on the development of inorganic, hydrogen-based flow batteries for high power density and energy density. Among these is the hydrogen-iodine flow battery. This battery type has fast kinetics, and recent work demonstrated that an electrolyte with high pH and co-solvent can achieve high iodine solubility and high open circuit voltage. However, this battery type is in an early stage of development. Further analysis is required, including studying the configuration of such an alkaline H2-I2 battery and longer-term stability. Results will be compared and merged with developments in other flow battery chemistries developed at other universities and industrial partners (Aquabattery, Elestor, Ore Energy) in this project.

The role is suited to a candidate with excellent performance in BSc/MSc studies, knowledge of electrochemistry, and experience in performing laboratory experiments. The position calls for strong engineering skills rather than materials science or fundamental electrochemistry, with the aim of demonstrating this technology at stack level. A proactive mindset and strong collaboration skills are also important to work with project partners and evaluate this technology for ultra-long energy storage from multiple angles.

Job requirements

We’re looking for a candidate with:

• A MSc degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, applied chemistry, applied physics or similar
• Experience in working with energy technology
• Proven experimental skills
• Knowledge in engineering or process technology
• An excellent grade list
• A proactive and creative mindset
• Fluency in English; speaking Dutch is a plus
• Starting date in Q4 2026

This PhD position offers:

• A challenging job in a highly innovative technology field
• Embedding in an enthusiastic team of engineers and researchers
• Collaboration with industrial partners
• A position with funding for 4 years

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

At TU Delft, people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, staff provide high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means joining an international community of professionals and students. Together, they create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5-year contract includes an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming performance requirements are met.

As a PhD candidate, you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff, and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related, and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. This is done, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest.