Postdoctoral Research Fellowship – PEM Water Electrolysis Stack and Components at North West University

The successful candidate will contribute to research and technology development with a particular focus on:

• PEM water electrolyser stack design, development, and optimisation;
• Electrochemical performance evaluation and advanced characterisation techniques, including Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and Distribution of Relaxation Times (DRT) analysis;
• CFD modelling using STAR-CCM  of flow fields, transport phenomena, thermal management, and stack components;
• Development and optimisation of materials, components, and manufacturing processes;
• Understanding, selection, and optimisation of perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) materials for membranes, catalyst layers, and ionomer formulations;
• Catalyst-coated membrane (CCM) fabrication and coating process optimisation;
• Supply chain development and localisation of PEM water electrolysis technologies.

Minimum requirements

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrochemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field (awarded within the last five years).
• Demonstrated research experience in PEM water electrolysis or closely related electrochemical technologies.
• Strong understanding of PFSA-based materials, including membranes and ionomers used in PEM electrochemical devices.
• Experience with electrochemical testing and characterisation, including EIS and DRT analysis.
• Experience with CFD modelling using STAR-CCM  and scientific data analysis.
• Hands-on experience with ultrasonic coating systems and other coating equipment for catalyst layer and CCM fabrication will be considered a strong advantage.
• Familiarity with GreenLight Innovation test stations and the Siemens automation environment (PLC/HMI) will be considered a strong advantage.
• Strong publication record and excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a multidisciplinary and international research team.

Apply by: 24 July 2026