Researcher (M/F/x) for The Defence Laboratories

**Description of the function**In the framework of a research project focusing on the development and characterization of heat and electricity production in a BE Defense Base and in a Compound abroad conducted in collaboration with an academic partner, we are looking for a research scientist / engineer with a MSc degree.

**Study**
The main objective of this project is to realize an installation that produces hydrogen which can be used - as an energy carrier in time and space - for heating and production of electricity in order to maximize the energy independency in both a building in a BE Defense base and in a compound in Southern Europe. Both options will be taken into account due to different climatological conditions and therefore distinct designs of the production panels. After an analysis, the production panels will be integrated. Furthermore, the installation functions as a modular unit, capable of providing limited energy and heat for the buildingCollecting data including validation of the predicted hydrogen yields versus the real-life long-term operation will be followed by the evaluation and the adjustment of parameters.

This project combines the know-how of Leuven University and Defence (Royal Military Academy, Directorate General Material Resources and Defence Laboratories). The results of this project can lead to a lower dependence on imports of energy products; it can increase the durability of defence capabilities and reduce the greenhouse gas emissions.
- Developing an understanding regarding the theoretical and practical possibilities of hydrogen storage
- developing the processes to address the transformation of hydrogen in the different final energy forms,
- gaining experience with relevant computer codes e.g. those for electricity production by fuel cells, or electricity storage by electrolysis with different hydrogen storage strategies in between.
- Gaining theoretical knowledge of the techniques used in the production of heat and energy through hydrogen.

For your role as project coordinator, you will mainly operate from the Defence Laboratories (B-1800 Vilvoorde). The locations where the experimental work will be carried out are as follows: Campus Saffraanberg (B-3800 Sint-Truiden) and Royal Military Academy (B-1000 Brussels)). Occasional travels abroad have to be taken into account because some work will be carried out in a compound in Southern Europe.

**Main Tasks**
- Oversee the implementation of the modular facility at the compound in BE and abroad.
- Performing a managing role to ensure optimal communication between the different project partners.
- In collaboration with the different partners, will identify and implement hydrogen storage facilities
- Write scientific reports, reviews and summaries.
- Monitor, record and analyze results.
- Ensure the strict respect of quality and safety rules.
- Perform correctly and in a timely manner the different missions and tasks in collaboration with the different partners of the project.

**Profile description**Skills / Qualifications**:
**Required**:
The applicant shall have:

- The applicant shall have a MSc degree or Ir degree
- Practical background in sustainable energy systems, energy collection and conversion systems is an added value.

**Personal skills**:

- Ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary research team;
- Proactive behaviour and commitment;
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Good coordinating skills

**Other skills/Assets**:

- French/Dutch bilingualism is an asset, as the project will take place in different locations: Campus Saffraanberg (B-3800 Sint-Truiden), Royal Military Academy (B-1000 Brussels), and Defence Laboratories (B-1800 Vilvoorde).
- Good command of the English language (speaking, writing and reading);
- Good command of Microsoft Office tools.

**Specific requirements**:
**Benefits of the position**Contract**:

- Probable date of recruitment**: as soon as possible, to be agreed with the applicant.**:

- Contract: a long-term, full-time contract with the Patrimony of the Royal Military Academy (you will not be a civil servant). The financing of this contract is tied to the MSP/21-06 project, which lasts 4 years.
- Wage scale: class A1 (holders of a Master's degree in Science) / class A2 (Ir or holders of a Master's degree in Engineering).
- Holiday pay.

**Extra-legal benefits**:

- Possibility to benefit from a bilingualism allowance (Dutch/French) following a SELOR test;
- End-of-year bonus;
- Free DKV hospitalization insurance. Possibility of additional affiliation for one or more persons living under the same roof: spouse, child(ren) (50% of the price per additional member);
- Bicycle allowance / Free public transport (home-work commute);
- Free access to campus sports facilities outside working hours;
- On-campus restaurant and cafeteria with democratic prices (discount on the daily menu);
- Flexible working hours within the 38-hour week;
- Teleworking possible;
- Holiday