The Opportunity

• Contirbute to the development of a hydrogen-powered vehicle.
• Help develop a zero-emissions mobile LOHC technology platform.
• Establish novel flow chemistry processes using our CSM technology.

CSIRO Early Research Career (CERC) Postdoctoral Fellowships provide opportunities to scientists and engineers who have completed their doctorate and have less than three years of relevant postdoctoral work experience. These fellowships aim to develop the next generation of future leaders of the innovation system.

In this position you will develop a working concept of a hydrogen-powered vehicle using liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) as hydrogen supply, coupled with a proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The focus of the research will lie on a novel catalytic converter for the dehydrogenation of LOHCs and in-situ production of hydrogen. You will establish novel flow chemistry processes using CSIRO’s Catalytic Static Mixer (CSM) technology and will aim to make advancements in catalyst materials, reactor design and the additive manufacturing of reactor components. The objective of this project is to develop a zero-emissions mobile LOHC technology as part of a national effort towards an Australian Hydrogen Economy. The project will offer you the opportunity to develop a range of relevant industry skills and the chance to pursue innovative thinking and research within a multi-disciplinary team.

Your duties will include:

• Conducting experiments on the reverse cycle hydrogenation / dehydrogenation of LOHCs in a thermal chemical process using novel 3D printed structured catalysts.
• Designing a continuous flow catalyst system for testing of different catalyst materials and geometries and for optimising the LOHC (de-)hydrogenation processes to surpass process efficiencies of conventional catalyst technologies, such as packed bed systems.
• In collaboration with a team of CSIRO researchers, developing an integrated solution containing the LOHC dehydrogenation unit and a PEM fuel cell, with optimised heat management.

Location: Clayton, Victoria
Salary: AU$86k - AU$94k plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Tenure: Specified term of 3 years
Reference: 72181

To be considered you will need:

• A doctorate (or will shortly satisfy the requirements of a PhD) in a relevant discipline area such as chemical engineering, process engineering or renewable energy engineering. Please note: To be eligible for this role you must have no more than 3 years (or part-time equivalent) of postdoctoral research experience.
• Experience in heterogeneous and/or homogeneous catalysis.
• Experience in continuous flow processing/flow chemistry.
• Strong experience in experimental design, development of experimental equipment and analysis and interpretation of experimental results.

For full details about this role please view the Position Description

Eligibility

The successful applicant will be required to obtain and provide a National Police Check or equivalent.

Applicants must be Australian/New Zealand citizens, Australian permanent residents or Australian temporary residents currently residing in Australia.

Flexible Working Arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. Talk to us about how this role could be flexible for you. Balance

Diversity and Inclusion

We are working hard to recruit diverse people and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. Diversity and Inclusion Strategy

We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people.

About CSIRO

At CSIRO, Australia's national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology.

Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

How to Apply

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

Applications Close

15 March 2021, 11:00pm AEDT