Postdoc in Nuclear-Renewable Hybrid Energy Systems

Nuclear energy is a versatile and flexible low-carbon energy source, which can provide an important contribution to the transition toward a decarbonized economy. In this context, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) represent an attractive option because of their potential for a simpler and more effective implementation in comparison with traditional large power reactors. This post-doctoral project is proposed to provide the necessary information about the SMR designs suitable for future dual- or multi-purpose use for production of hydrogen gas or only heat. The position is meritorious for future research duties within academia as well as industry/the public sector.

Project description
The position relates to projects within the Swedish Competence Centre ANItA (Academic-industrial Nuclear technology Initiative to Achieve a sustainable energy future), which integrates Swedish technical and nontechnical expertise of Uppsala University, Chalmers, KTH, Vattenfall, Uniper, Fortum, Westinghouse, Studsvik Nuclear and the Swedish Energy Agency in nuclear technology and engineering.

Collaborative research, development and education of the centre aims to create a Swedish knowledge and competence base needed for the introduction of novel nuclear power technologies such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and provide relevant information, in particular, to policymakers for timely decisions on the future Swedish energy generation mix. Within ANItA, the leading universities in Sweden collaborate with leading Nordic companies in the nuclear energy sector. This offers doctoral students and postdoctoral students a strong research environment, a unique industrial application potential, and excellent opportunities for international partnerships.

This project deals with dual- or multi-purpose use and integration of nuclear technology into the energy system. The research is prompted by 1) current ideas to produce hydrogen gas through electrolysis of water by using wind and solar power and 2) the vast potential of using nuclear power technology for producing hydrogen gas or only heat.

Combined thermal splitting and electrolysis is another emerging technology which may develop into a competitive technology if based on SMRs. On the other hand, it should be noted that gas-cooled fast reactors, with their high operating temperatures, are well-suited for thermally splitting water into its constituents with potentially an extremely high efficiency. These developments are likely to have a significant impact on the future energy system and the Centre will investigate the nuclear component in such technologies.

The project will provide competence development for young researchers that will allow them to fulfill roles as either future TSO (Technical Support Organisation) personnel that will be required for transition from the current nuclear power plant fleet to a future fleet including or based on SMR technology, or as experts within Swedish nuclear industry.

The objective is furthermore to assemble and provide to other Centre projects key design features for further developments.

Information the department and the research group
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering is one of the largest departments at Chalmers. We represent a broad field of fundamental and applied research and education within chemistry and chemical engineering. Our research activities reach from fundamental chemistry, chemistry at the interface of biology and medicine, materials science, renewable energy, to chemical engineering processing, material recycling, nuclear chemistry, as well as theory and modelling. We are committed to teaching at the undergraduate, graduate, as well as postgraduate level. Academic freedom, interdisciplinary research, entrepreneurship and making societal impact, are key factors in our work. We strive to offer an environment where you can combine world leading research and teaching with a good work-life balance.

The Division of Energy and Materials, Nuclear Chemistry and Industrial Materials Recycling group covers a broad range of research topics. We have more than 50 years of experience in these fields and we are driven by curiosity and boldness. Our research (aside hydrometallurgy applied in various non-nuclear applications), is devoted to the development of a closed nuclear fuel cycle (fuel research, waste management through recycling of spent nuclear fuel for separation for transmutation, novel fuel developments, final repository research) as well as safety of reactors from chemical point of view (current and Gen IV systems) as well as research on severe nuclear accidents.

Major responsibilities
As a Post Doctoral researcher you are expected to be expert in your field, to be self-driven and independent, analytic, strategic and quality conscious. Besides your project you will be driving through to fruition, it is expected to be able to communicate with the project partners (academia and industrial partners), to be structured and time aware. You are also expected to be an active part of the department's senior team.

Qualifications
To qualify for the position as Postdoc, you must have a PhD degree in Chemistry with Nuclear Chemistry as speciality, or Nuclear Physics, or Reactor Physics or related fields (eg. nuclear plant design, reactor safety, etc). The PhD degree must be awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline (according to the current agreement with the Swedish Agency for Government Employers). Applications without a documented knowledge in Chemistry/Physics of nuclear reactors, nuclear fuel cycle or related to nuclear field will be systematically disregarded.

Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment is desirable.

Fluency in English is mandatory, fluency/knowledge of a Nordic language would be meritous as well.

Please observe: Since the department is also a nuclear facility, only citizens of the countries who are signatory of Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons can apply and be considered for the position. Please check the status of your country before applying.

Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for two years.

Application procedure
To apply, please go to: https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/Working-at-Chalmers/Vacancies/Pages/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=11030&rmlang=UK

Application deadline: 30 November 2022