UK : PhD Studentship Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells and Electrolysers

Newcastle University - School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials

Reference Code: CE021

Closing Date: 20th December 2009

Details:

This is an excellent opportunity to join one of the leading UK teams of researchers investigating high temperature polymer electrolyte (PEM) fuel cells and electrolysers.

We have one studentship available for a project in one of the following themes:

• Modelling and mechanical behaviour of PEM fuel cells
• Proton exchange membranes for medium and intermediate temperature fuel cell and electrolysers
• Water transport and degradation of PEM fuel cells
• Intermediate temperature hydrogen electrolyser performance

The successful applicant will work in well-found laboratories within the research groups of Professor Keith Scott and Professor Paul Christensen which form a leading centre for polymer membrane fuel cell research in the UK.

As well as standard current/voltage/time analytical techniques, state-of-the-art spectroscopic, fuel cell test systems and electrode fabrication systems are available within the groups. In addition, the School has excellent engineering, mechanical and glassblowing workshops and Newcastle University provides efficient EDX/SEM etc facilities. The Graduate School in the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering also provides an effective postgraduate skills development programme for our PhD students.

The School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials is ranked as one of the leading schools for chemical engineering teaching and research. In the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 2008, 85% of our submission to chemical engineering was classed as 'internationally excellent' or 'internationally recognised'.

Value of the Award: There is one studentship available. The award covers tuition fees (at the UK/EU rate) and a tax free maintenance allowance. UK, EU and international students may apply for the studentship however international students would need to source additional funding to cover the difference between UK/EU and international tuition fees.

Person Specification: You should have a minimum of an upper-second-class or first-class Honours degree in science or engineering. An MSc in science or engineering would be an advantage.

How to Apply: You must complete the University's postgraduate application form, selecting 'PhD School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials (full time) - Chemical Engineering' as the programme of study and inserting the reference number CE021. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement required) and a CV and a covering letter should be attached. The covering letter must state the title of the studentship, quote the reference number CE021 and state how your interests and experience relate to the project of your chosen theme.

Deadline for applications: 20th December 2009

Further Information: If you are interested in making a contribution to the development of the next generation of power sources then contact Professor Keith Scott by email: k.scott@newcastle.ac.uk, for further details.