PRR Project

Summary

This position will be open in the scientific area of Thermofluids and Energy Conversion Technologies in the Department of Mechanical Engineering (DEM) of Instituto Superior Técnico (IST). This scientific area is divided into three main sub-areas: i) fluid mechanics, ii) transfer phenomena and, iii) energy conversion technologies. The present position is intended for a candidate working in the sub-area of Energy Conversion Technologies.Energy Conversion Technologies play a major role in meeting energy needs, improving efficiency, and addressing environmental concerns. They include classical fossil fuel energy technologies, renewable energy technologies (solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, biomass, wave and tides), nuclear energy, and emerging technologies, such as fuel cells, hydrogen energy, batteries and energy storage. While the academic faculty of the scientific area has recognized expertise in fossil fuel energy technologies and several renewable energy technologies (e.g., wind, hydroelectric, wave and tides), and topics such as nuclear energy and batteries are covered by the academic faculty of other departments at IST, there is a lack of expertise biomass and emerging energy technologies, namely hydrogen technologies, fuel cells and energy storage that are expected to be increasingly more important in the next few decades.The need to mitigate the emission of greenhouse gases to face ongoing climate changes and their impact on earth and humanity is leading to major changes in the energy sector. Biomass is an important and versatile energy source for several reasons, contributing to both environmental sustainability and energy security. It provides an alternative to fossil fuels, helps diversify the energy mix and reduces dependence on finite and environmentally impactful fossil fuel resources. Biomass is a renewable resource because it comes from organic materials like plants, crop residues, wood, and organic waste. Therefore, it can be continually replenished, making it a carbon-neutral energy source in the long term and, therefore, a sustainable energy option. Biomass energy can be generated from agricultural residues, forestry waste, and organic waste from various industries and used for energy production, reducing the environmental impact of waste. Biomass power plants can be designed for base-load power generation, providing a consistent and reliable source of electricity, thereby contributing to energy security by diversifying the energy supply. However, it is essential to consider sustainability practices, land use impacts, and environmental considerations to ensure responsible biomass utilization for energy purposes. Advances in technology and ongoing research are needed to improve the efficiency and environmental performance of biomass-based energy systems.Hydrogen technologies are likely to play a crucial role in the energy sector in the nearby future due to their potential to address key challenges such as decarbonization, energy storage, and the integration of renewable energy sources. Hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier that can be produced without emitting greenhouse gases. When used in fuel cells or combustion, hydrogen generates energy, releasing only water vapor as a byproduct. This makes hydrogen a clean and environmentally friendly option for various applications. Hydrogen can be utilized in industrial processes, to replace fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions, allowing to decarbonize sectors that are challenging to electrify directly. Hydrogen can also serve as an energy storage medium, especially for intermittent renewable energy sources. Excess electricity generated during periods of high renewable energy production can be used to produce hydrogen through electrolysis, which can then be stored and later used for electricity generation or as a fuel. Hydrogen can be used in fuel cell electric vehicles, providing a clean alternative to traditional internal combustion engines, making hydrogen a suitable option for certain transport applications. It can also be used as a fuel in gas turbines to generate electricity, either alone or in combination with natural gas. However, major challenges need to be overcome such as cost and infrastructure development. Therefore, further research and technological advancements are essential.In this contest, we intend to open a position for a candidate with a strong research background on biomass and/or emerging energy technologies, particularly focused on hydrogen. This is essential to strengthen the competencies and leadership in the Energy Conversion Technologies at LAETA/IDMEC/DEM-IST. A scouting initiative was recently carried out by the DEM to identify talented researchers in areas that need to be renewed or strengthened. Two researchers that have the expertise above described were identified and others may apply through the wide dissemination of the call for the position.