R&D Scientist - Hydrogen

Be part of something bigger!

As the world and the way people live is changing, at Bekaert we believe it’s our responsibility to contribute to finding new solutions for the future.

Our ambition is to be the leading partner for shaping the way we live and move. And to always do this the Bekaert Way – safe, smart, and sustainable.

With a heritage of more than 140 years, we continue to strengthen our core competencies that have made Bekaert a global market and technology leader in material science of steel wire transformation and coating technologies. Today, we also apply our expertise beyond steel to create new solutions with innovative materials and services for markets including new mobility, low-carbon construction, and green energy.

As a dynamic and growing company with over 27,000 employees worldwide, 75 nationalities, a retention rate above 90% and a revenue of €7 billion, we're looking for someone like you to join our team!

Why join us?

• Personal Growth – Let us help you unlock your full potential
• Pioneering – Join us to challenge the impossible
• Creativity - Discover possibilities beyond steel
• Purpose – Drive progress for our planet and people
• Diversity – Together, we create change

About the role

Your Impact as ‘R&D Scientist – Hydrogen’:

• Development of advanced AEM (and/or PEM) electrolyser components for Bekaert’s Hydrogen portfolio, in close collaboration with the rest of the R&D team, product & application, and competence center.
• Develop innovative solutions for MEA designs based on various PTLs, GDLs, and membranes, and optimization towards performance and durability improvements,
• Investigate coating methods for producing stable and homogeneous catalyst layers. Fabrication of prototype electrolyser components such as electrodes and MEAs.  
• Carrying out electrochemical measurements (in-situ and ex-situ, pre/post-test analyses) on AEM/PEM electrolyser components.
• Support developing EC measurement protocols, such as accelerated stress tests (AST) for various components of MEAs. Experience in the evaluation of electrodes, membranes, and MEA is a MUST.
• Pinpoint underlying MEA mechanical and chemical degradation mechanisms and bring up mitigating solutions to upgrading the MEA lifetime.
• Network and develop collaboration with other groups and divisions internally and with other national labs, and industries.
• Preparation of reports and presentations for project meetings. Communicating results to the project team and other stakeholders.
• Work in close contact with the legal and IP teams to be aligned with IP strategy on new product development, and follow-up on patents from competition.
• Job location: Need to work from Belgium, in close contact with the hydrogen team and laboratory

About You

Essential skills & competencies

• PhD in Electrochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Several years of experience in a relevant industry
• Knowledge of Alkaline and AEM electrolyser’s components and recent developments is a bonus
• Strong experience and knowledge in fuel cells and electrolysers components and characterisation methods.
• Knowledge of catalysts, membranes, ionomer, gas diffusion layer, and other cell components.
• Good experience in electrochemical tests (i.e., cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, fuel cell, electrolyser).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing needs.

What is in it for you?

• A Competitive salary with Benefits.
• 20 vacation days + 17 ADV days.
• Learning programs developed by our L&D department.
• A great opportunity to play your part in an international growth story.
• A chance to grow along with your responsibilities (national or international).
• Cool colleagues all over the world.

Will you dare to take the next step?

Join us to unlock your full potential AND have a true impact in pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

We're looking for individuals who are not afraid to take risks and explore new ideas. If you are passionate about personal growth and bringing your authentic self to work, we want you on our team!

At Bekaert, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive work environment. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Our Hydrogen Business Unit is a dynamic and innovative scale-up business, part of Bekaert’s Specialty Businesses. We specialize in Energy Transition, with a focus on Hydrogen generation. Our international team features young and diverse professionals bursting with entrepreneurial spirit. Are you a talented individual passionate about renewable energy? Do you want to be part of a growing, exciting team? Join us in shaping the future of renewable energy.

To learn more about us and our exciting career opportunities, visit Bekaert Careers