PhD student position in Hydrogen-Powered Combustion Engines

About the research

Hydrogen-powered combustion engines are poised to play a vital role in developing a sustainable transport system. Globally, vehicle manufacturers are heavily investing in hydrogen engine technology due to its potential to combine energy efficiency, climate neutrality, and zero emissions of harmful substances.

One of the key challenges for direct-injected hydrogen engines is achieving an optimal fuel-air mixture within the cylinder. This project will utilize engine experiments and advanced optical diagnostics to investigate how engine geometry and fuel injection systems influence fuel distribution, combustion processes, and overall engine efficiency.

Project description

The primary objective of this project is to explore flow and mixing phenomena in direct-injected hydrogen engines and their effects on ignition and combustion processes. Achieving high efficiency without knock requires a thorough understanding of the air-hydrogen mixing process.

Research activities will include:


• Advanced testing on available car- and truck-sized engines.
• Detailed optical investigations of fuel injection, mixing, and combustion processes using high-speed video imaging and laser-spectroscopic techniques.

This project is conducted in close collaboration with Lund University and leading industrial partners such as AB Volvo, Scania, Aurobay Sweden, and SEM. A second Ph.D. student at Lund University will also be involved in this collaborative effort.

The knowledge, experience, and networks gained during the doctoral program provide an excellent foundation for a career in either industry or academia.

About the division

The position is based at the Division for Transport, Energy, and Environment, part of the Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences at Chalmers. The division conducts a broad range of research focusing on energy efficiency and environmental impact across transportation modes, including road vehicles and ships.

Key research areas include:


• Propulsion systems for road vehicles and ships, such as combustion engines, fuel cells, and hybrid or electrified drivetrains.
• Experimental and modeling activities related to energy converters, fuel sustainability, and environmental impact.

Facilities at the division include:


• Research engines of various sizes.
• A full-vehicle test rig.
• Advanced optical diagnostics for fuel injection and combustion analysis.

The division collaborates extensively with industrial partners and research groups both nationally and internationally.

Major responsibilities

As a Ph.D. student, you will:


• Develop a detailed project plan with the supervisory team, including intermediate goals.
• Drive the research project forward and take responsibility for its progress.
• Design and use experimental equipment.
• Analyze experimental data and author scientific publications.
• Present findings at international conferences and liaise with industrial partners.
• Participate in research group activities.
• Carry out teaching or departmental duties equivalent to 10–20% of working hours.
• Complete doctoral-level courses equivalent to 60 higher education credits.

Read more about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.

Qualifications

Required:


• Master of Science (or equivalent, 240 higher education credits) in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong oral and written communication skills in English.

Meritorious:


• Experience with combustion engines or combustion processes.
• Knowledge of optical measurement techniques.
• Familiarity with fluid dynamic measurements or simulations.

Contract terms

This is a full-time, temporary position. The employment is limited to 4.5–5 years, depending on the extent of teaching and departmental duties. The position begins with a one-year contract.

We offer

Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure

Submit your application in English as PDF files. Each file should be a maximum of 40 MB (the system does not support ZIP files).

Required documents:


• CV: Include your CV, relevant previous experience (e.g., employment, leadership roles), and contact information for two references.


• Personal letter: A 1–3 page document where you:

• Introduce yourself.
• Describe relevant experience (e.g., education, thesis work, research activities).
• Outline your career goals and research interests.




• Other documents:

• Copies of your bachelor's and/or master's thesis.
• Certified copies of academic transcripts, grades, and certificates (e.g., TOEFL results, if applicable).



Note: It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure the application is complete. Incomplete applications or those submitted via email will not be considered.

Application deadline: 31 January, 2025

Contact information

For questions, please contact:


• Mats Andersson (f3cma@chalmers.se)
• Petter Dahlander (dallas@chalmers.se)


*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***