Background
The MéridaLabs research group at UBC is looking for a motivated and solution-oriented postdoctoral fellow (PDF). Our group has a track record in hydrogen research encompassing hydrogen utilization (e.g. fuel cells) and production technologies (e.g. pyrolysis, water electrolysis). The hydrogen research is embedded in a broader research portfolio that studies and develops integrated energy systems, breakthrough technologies, policy, energy conversion, new business models, techno-economic and life cycle analyses, optimization, ML/AI, and intelligent networks, among others.
This PDF position will work on a project in close collaboration with an industrial partner, VulcanX Energy Corp. which leads the industry with its groundbreaking patented technology, focused on the efficient production of low-cost, low-emission hydrogen and solid carbon through natural gas pyrolysis (thermal cracking). Building on substantial advancements achieved in the laboratory, as well as successful de-risking in the hydrogen production demonstration plant, VulcanX is now poised to further scale its natural gas pyrolysis technology. Our current focus lies in the development of FEED and detailed engineering designs for our pre-commercial plant, marking a pivotal phase in the de-risking process and paving the way for widespread commercialization. This pre-commercial facility is designed to yield high-purity hydrogen, directly meeting the needs of end-users and positioning VulcanX as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
Job Description
The MéridaLabs research group is seeking a highly qualified postdoctoral fellow with specialization in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to join our dynamic team and support the research and development and design activities on low-emission hydrogen production technology. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of academic or industrial experience in CFD simulation, thermo-fluid mechanics, heat transfer, kinetic modeling, and multi-phase flow simulation. Having expertise in high-temperature hydrocarbon pyrolysis, corrosive environments, and a deep understanding of hydrogen systems is a merit. The CFD PDF will work with the VulcanX R&D team to design a new generation of prototype reactors to enhance the hydrogen yield and improve their thermal efficiency.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D and senior management, operations, maintenance, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless project execution.
- Demonstrate strong communication skills to effectively liaise with cross-functional teams and other stakeholders.
- Provide support to the VulcanX project team from conceptual design through to development.
- Prepare conceptual designs for the reactor system and assist in the development of preliminary studies by providing expertise on mechanical equipment and materials selection.
- Provide expertise and recommendations on multi-phase simulation (solid-liquid-gas) of the reactor and heat transfer in the reactor system.
- Perform hydraulics calculations and stress analyses of critical pieces (reactor and piping systems) for the pyrolysis process plant.
- Develop mechanical equipment data sheets for the prototype reactor.
- Review design documents for vendor-supplied equipment to ensure compliance with legislative requirements and project specifications and coordinates further review by other relevant disciplines.
- Assist in project scheduling and development of engineering and capital cost estimates.
- Resolve problems using standard engineering procedures and previously developed methods.
- Perform complex and detailed engineering calculations when required.
- Assist in the review and preparation of project control documents and status reports.
- Publish scientific papers in top-tier journals and present findings at international conferences.
- Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, reliability, and ethical conduct in all aspects of the role.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Chemical Engineering or related disciplines.
- Less than 3 years from Ph.D. graduation date.
- 5+ years of relevant work experience in CFD simulation software such as Ansys Fluent, COMSOL, and Open Foam.
- Experience in kinetic reaction modeling, such as Ansys Chemkin, and integration with CFD software.
- Experience in developing User-Defined Functions (UDFs) to integrate with CFD software.
- Having expertise in multi-phase flow simulation, kinetic modeling, and heat transfer.
- Being familiar with the oil and gas industry, hydrogen and solid carbon production, and chemical process design, with a focus on pressure vessel systems and high-temperature hydrocarbon pyrolysis.
- Experience in developing conceptual designs in emerging technologies would be considered an asset.
- Previous experience in supporting development of lab prototype systems, scale-up, and commercialization of emerging technologies is an asset.
- Experience in mechanical equipment design and material selection is preferred.
- Hydrogen production experience would be considered an asset.
- Fundamental understanding and application of engineering concepts, codes, design standards, and guidelines applicable to process engineering discipline
- Strong ability to track progress and prepare status reports.
- Ability to use judgment to solve problems based on engineering guidelines and procedures.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a high degree of professionalism.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to perform and complete multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Knowledge of project management principles and management of change is an asset.
Benefits
The salary for this position is in the $65,000-70,000 range with a competitive benefits package.
Opportunities for professional development and growth.
Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
UBC is committed to and recognizes equity and diversity as essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
Qualified applicants should send their application package, including CV and Cover Letter, to anna.biel@ubc.ca.
Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.