Purpose of Role
The Research Assistant (RA) will work within Dr. Sudhagar Pitchaimuthu’s research group at the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS) to support experimental and technoeconomic analysis related to onsite green hydrogen production and storage systems. The project aims to evaluate the feasibility and performance of solar PV-integrated electrolysis systems for sustainable mobility applications.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
1. Conduct hands-on experiments using the Solar PV-integrated electrolyser system
2. Collect daily data on solar PV power generation via IoT-enabled monitoring systems
3. Operate the electrolyser using both solar PV and grid electricity, recording current density, voltage, and periodic hydrogen gas generation data
4. Develop a technoeconomic calculator to assess the cost and performance of onsite electrolysis-based hydrogen generation
5. Validate the technoeconomic model using experimental data and case studies
6. Collaborate closely with the project’s industry partner to align technical outcomes with practical applications
7. Prepare detailed progress, interim, and final project reports
8. Participate in team meetings, technical discussions, and project review sessions
9. Provide guidance and technical support to undergraduate and postgraduate project students involved in the study
Essential Qualifications and Skills:
10. Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Renewable Energy, or a related discipline.
11. Experience or strong interest in bioenergy, hydrogen production, electrolysis, or renewable energy systems.
12. Familiarity with system integration, pilot scale demonstration, data acquisition systems, IoT-based monitoring, or energy systems modelling.
13. Proficiency in using Excel, MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for data analysis and technoeconomic calculations.
14. Strong technical writing and presentation skills.
15. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
Desirable Skills:
16. Experience in solar PV systems, electrolyser operation, or hydrogen storage technologies
17. Knowledge of technoeconomic assessment
18. Prior experience in industry-academic collaborative projects