Research Fellow in Fuel Cell Diagnostics

Contract: Full Time, Fixed Term Contract until February 2026 

Our Mission

Coventry University Group is a global education group with a mission of Creating Better Futures. Driven by our passion and belief that through education, equity, and innovation our students, people, and communities are empowered to transform their lives and the world around them. Our people are the key to our success and each role within the group plays a key role in shaping the future. 

Coventry University’s Centre for E-Mobility and Clean Growth is seeking a highly-motivated Research Fellow to work as part of a team delivering an exciting, industrial collaborative research project with multiple UK partners, focused on developing zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell propulsion systems for passenger aircraft, based novel high temperature proton exchange membrane (HTPEM) technology. 

The Role

We seek an experienced postdoctoral researcher to support the AFCAD project, led by industrial partner ZeroAvia.  This exciting project aims to accelerate development of ZeroAvia’s next-generation high temperature proton exchange membrane (HTPEM) fuel cell technology for aviation applications.  

Under the line management supervision and guidance of Prof Oliver Curnick, and in close collaboration with ZeroAvia, you will contribute to research activity, prepare reports and deliverables within the project.

Particular contribution will be required on:

• testing and characterisation of ZeroAvia’s HTPEM fuel cell MEAs, cells and short stacks;
• development of accelerated stress tests to activate key degradation modes;
• application of electrochemical techniques e.g. EIS, cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic techniques for measurement of key parameters to elicit origins of efficiency losses and determine degradation modes;
• development of performance and degradation models;
• supporting project meetings and dissemination activities.

In addition, you will gain valuable exposure to the Centre’s research, including the preparation of project proposals with support from your line manager. Alongside a great range of benefits, this role will provide you with excellent learning and development opportunities. If successful, you will join a fast-growing research centre with high levels of industrial engagement. This is an exciting opportunity for you to significantly expand your technical research skills within the strategically important area of sustainable aviation.

Qualifications Required

You should have or be near obtaining a PhD related to electrochemistry, fuel cells, electrolysers or batteries and be able to demonstrate relevant expertise in electrochemical diagnostics and modelling.

Our Successful Candidate

A highly-motivated and experienced Research Fellow with demonstrable expert knowledge and understanding of hydrogen fuel cell and/or electrolyser technologies, including experience contributing to innovation and development of the field.  An advanced knowledge of research methods and techniques with demonstratable adherence to all regulations, you will have the ability to develop research objectives, projects, and proposals for your own and joint research.

Demonstrable track-record in the delivery of industrial collaborative research projects and generation of high-quality publications in high-profile, peer-reviewed journals along with presentations at national/international events. You will be committed to working collaboratively on research development, delivery and dissemination including interdisciplinary or cross-disciplinary research, public engagement, and knowledge exchange. Prior experience or demonstrable expertise in HTPEM fuel cells, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and in-situ testing of MEAs would be advantageous.

The Benefits

As a staff member of Coventry University, you will have access to a wide range of industry leading rewards and benefits which includes:

• Excellent Employers Pension Contribution
• 38 days Annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• New Holiday Purchase Scheme up to 5 additional days
• Life Assurance 4x Salary
• BUPA Cash Plan
• 50% off Tuition Fee’s for staff dependants
• CU Reward Scheme – Discounts across a range of High Street/ Online Retailers
• New Electric Car Scheme
• Cycle To Work scheme

Our Culture

As a global Education Group, equality, diversity, and inclusion are embedded within the fabric of our organisation and are a key focus of our core values. We harness the power and potential of the diverse cultures, backgrounds, abilities, and experiences of our students, colleagues, and partners to create opportunities for all.

Closing Date:  Saturday 30^th November

Apply link: https://cugcareers.coventry.ac.uk/job-invite/2425/