Membrane Stack Specialist

As our Membrane Stack Specialist, you will play a crucial role in our team of scientists and engineers in the development of our groundbreaking water and salt-based flow battery technology. As we move towards commercialization, you will work in our brand new office, workshop, and lab at Alphen a/d Rijn.

As a Membrane Stack Specialist, you will be instrumental in optimizing the heart of our acid-base flow battery system: the membrane stack. You will be responsible for the design, development, and performance of this critical component, focusing on the selection and integration of key materials and techniques.

• Membrane selection and characterization: Evaluate and select optimal ion-exchange membranes for superior performance and compatibility with other battery components. This includes analyzing properties like ionic conductivity, selectivity, chemical stability, and durability.
• Spacer design and optimization: Design and optimize spacer materials to ensure proper electrolyte flow distribution within the stack while preventing membrane-to-membrane contact. This involves considering factors like porosity, channel geometry, and mechanical strength.
• Compression method development and characterization: Develop and implement effective compression methods to ensure optimal stack performance and prevent leakage. This may involve analyzing the effects of compression force on performance parameters.
• Stack assembly and testing: Participate in the assembly and testing of membrane stacks, employing specialized equipment and techniques to ensure quality and performance standards are met.
• Data analysis and troubleshooting: Analyze data from stack testing to identify performance issues, troubleshoot problems related to membrane selection, spacer design, or compression, and suggest improvements to the overall stack design and fabrication process.
• Technical documentation: Prepare and maintain detailed technical documentation related to membrane selection, spacer design, compression methods, stack assembly procedures, and testing results.
• Staying informed: Stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in membrane technology, spacer materials, and acid-base flow battery research, actively seeking opportunities to incorporate new knowledge and methodologies into your work.

Education and experience:

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• >2 years of relevant industry experience

Knowledge and skills:

• Strong understanding of membrane science and technology, including ion transport phenomena, membrane characterization techniques, and membrane selection criteria.
• Experience in working with ion-exchange membranes for EDI type stack design and application is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on detail-oriented work.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
• Proficient in English.

Considered a plus:

• Familiarity with flow battery technology and its principles.
• Proficiency in Dutch, spoken and written. 

• A fast-growing, impact-driven and multicultural work environment
• Open and collaborative learning culture
• Attractive compensation package, including stock appreciation rights program, green pension scheme (50% covered by company), and collective health insurance plan providing discount over additional insurances
• Flexibility and eye for healthy work-life balance, and 25 vacation days
• Company bike, for travel from and to the office
• Regular team and social events