We are seeking a highly motivated candidate for a PhD position focused on the 
development of an innovative hybrid boat propulsion technology utilizing direct 
methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) with zero-carbon emissions. The objective of this 
study is to leverage the electrochemical energy conversion capabilities of DMFC 
systems, which directly convert the chemical energy of liquid methanol into 
electrical energy. Compared to hydrogen and oxygen-fed proton exchange membrane 
fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries, DMFCs offer advantages in terms of easy 
handling and a theoretically high energy density of 6.1 kWh kg-1, making them 
well-suited for high-power, portable devices.

The primary aim of this research is to develop a control system that ensures 
optimal efficiency of the proposed hybrid boat propulsion system. A 1D model 
will be constructed to analyze the behavior of the DMFC device and investigate 
the impact of key operating parameters on performance, ultimately achieving the 
highest level of efficiency. To this end, a fuzzy logic-based control strategy 
will be implemented to regulate the methanol and air flow, as well as the power 
generated by the PV system and wind turbine, across various speeds and loading 
conditions. The MATLAB Simulink toolbox will be utilized to build the fuel cell 
model, while the fuzzy inference system will be developed using the fuzzy 
toolbox.

To apply for this position, please submit your curriculum vitae (CV), a letter 
of statement of purpose, and one recommendation letter to Dr. Raouf Mobasheri at 
raouf.mobasheri [at] junia.com. Additionally, if you can provide a writing 
sample in English (such as class project reports or conference papers), it would 
be advantageous, as it will allow us to assess your capability to analyze and 
present technical results. Co-authored works are acceptable, but they should 
primarily represent your own contributions.

Review of applications will commence immediately and will continue until the 
position is filled.

We encourage international applicants to apply; however, please note that the 
scholarship does not cover expenses for applicants outside the European Union. 
Non-European students are required to pay a tuition fee of 380 euros per year 
for university registration, in addition to covering their living expenses, 
which amount to approximately 1000 euros per month. These costs are the 
responsibility of the student or their sponsoring entity.