Post-doctoral researcher on PEMFC for drone applications

PSL Université Paris; Valbonne; Sur place; EUR 30 000 - 40 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading French research institution is seeking a post-doctoral researcher for PEMFC applications in drone technology. The role involves identifying challenges in fuel cell performance through both modeling and experimental approaches. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, experience in electrochemical systems, and proficiency in Python. The position is part of a commitment to sustainability and innovation in energy technologies.

Prestations

Joining a prestigious institution

Participating in the transition to carbon neutrality

Support for equality and diversity

Responsabilités

• Conduct literature review on open-cathode PEMFC modeling.
• Develop and refine physics-based models for PEMFC.
• Conduct experimental campaign and gather data.
• Contribute to open source modeling platform marapendi.
• Document developments and contribute to reports and publications.

Connaissances

Knowledge in electrochemical processes

Knowledge of experimental methods for fuel cell characterization

Experience with electrochemical systems

Python for scientific computing

Knowledge of version control systems (Git)

Analytical and problem-solving abilities

Ability to work on multidisciplinary topics

Aptitude for experimental work

Effective time management

Excellent communication skills

Description du poste

Post-doctoral researcher on PEMFC for drone applications (F/H)

le 05/01/2026

Mines Paris-PSL is one of the most prestigious engineering schools in France. Mines Paris-PSL is a public institution that trains generalist engineers through an innovative and multidisciplinary educational approach (engineering sciences and social sciences and humanities). Its affiliation with PSL University, which ranks among the top 50 in international rankings, represents a real opportunity to enrich academic paths.

Mission

The use of multi-rotor drones is rapidly expanding in both civil and military applications. Hydrogen-based onboard energy storage allows for an increased autonomy compared to battery storage, enabling longer and more flexible missions. While several demonstrators have confirmed the feasibility of using proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) to power multi-rotor drones, some challenges remain. One of them is to understand the impact of specific mission profiles on the lifetime and the reliability of the PEMFC. This is particularly the case for open-cathode PEMFC, which are well-suited for low power applications (<5 kW) but have been less studied than closed-cathode fuel cells. This post-doctoral position will address these gaps, combining experimental and modeling approaches to advance the durability and performance of PEMFCs in drone applications.

You will join the Material and Processes team of the PERSEE research center of Mines Paris – PSL. This team has been working on hydrogen technologies for more than 30 years, with activities on the development of advanced materials and new system architectures, supported by experimental characterization and modelling capabilities.

Your challenges and responsibilities

• Conduct a comprehensive literature review on open-cathode PEMFC modeling and degradation to understand the state-of-the-art and identify gaps on degradation modeling, with a specific focus on drone applications.
• Develop and refine 0D physics-based models to simulate open-cathode PEMFC operation and degradation in Python, including transient mass transfer, heat transfer, electrochemical reactions, and degradation mechanisms, with a particular attention to model calibration and validation.
• Conduct an experimental campaign, defining needs for experimental data, setting up an experimental test bench, running characterization and durability tests, and gathering and analyzing experimental data, in collaboration with the fuel cell lab technical staff.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of the open source modeling platform marapendi, ensuring that the developed models are integrated, documented and accessible.
• Document the numerical and experimental developments and results, contributing to the writing of project reports and scientific publications.

Informations - Recherche

Let’s talk about you!…

The main skills required for this position are:

• Strong knowledge in electrochemical and/or heat and mass transfer processes, with a focus on modelling.
• Knowledge of experimental methods for the characterization of fuel cell performance and degradation.
• Strong experience with electrochemical systems, especially fuel cell systems.
• Knowledge of Python for scientific computing, experimental data analysis and data visualization.
• Knowledge of version control systems, particularly Git.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to work on multidisciplinary topics.
• Aptitude for experimental work.
• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

…And about us! Working at Mines Paris - PSL also means:

• Joining a prestigious institution with a rich history.
• Playing a part in the digital transition and the transition to carbon neutrality to tackle the climate emergency.
• Belonging to PSL University, ranked 33rd in the Academic Ranking of World Universities.

Mines Paris – PSL is committed to supporting and promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion through an open and transparent recruitment process.

Mines Paris – PSL is also committed to promoting the professional integration and career development of people with disabilities.