Research Scientist – Cell Technology

Temporary, Full-time · Tallinn

Your mission

To strengthen our R&D division in Estonia, we are seeking a highly skilled and motivated scientist with expertise in solid oxide cell (SOC) technology. While a strong background in solid oxide cells is essential, experience with proton-conducting cells (PCCs) is ed. This role will focus on developing next-generation proton-conducting materials, in combination with optimizing cell components, and ultimately scaling innovations from the lab to industrial applications.

Your tasks

Actively participates in advanced research and development on proton-conducting and oxygen-ion-conducting SOC materials, including electrolytes, electrodes, and interconnects, to enhance performance, durability, and efficiency.
Develop and optimize materials synthesis, processing, and fabrication from laboratory-scale to industrial production.
Utilize and refine ceramic fuel cell characterization techniques, including XRD, XRF, SEM, TEM, TGA/DSC, PSD, BET, and others.
Analysis of electrochemical performance testing (e.g., I-V, AC impedance spectroscopy, CV, etc) to assess material and cell behavior under real-world conditions.
Investigate degradation mechanisms in SOCs and PCCs and implement strategies to enhance long-term stability and operational robustness.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate new materials and technologies into fuel cell and stack systems.
Drive intellectual property development, including technical reports, patents, and peer-reviewed publications.
Stay at the forefront of cell advancements, proactively identifying and integrating emerging technologies.
Work closely with the industrialization team, suppliers, and stakeholders to validate material performance and support technology commercialization.
Ensure strict compliance with safety, quality control, and laboratory best practices in all research activities

Your profile

Ph.D. in Materials Science/ Electrochemistry/ Chemical Engineering/ Mechanical Engineering/ or a closely related field, with a focus on solid oxide cell (SOC) technology.
Proven expertise in SOC materials and related components.
Hands-on experience in materials synthesis, paste/slurry and ink processing, sintering, thin-film deposition, and ceramic fabrication.
Strong background in electrochemical characterization (e.g., EIS, fuel cell testing, impedance spectroscopy) and materials analysis techniques.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in data modeling and computational analysis.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present research findings clearly and effectively.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment

Preferred Qualifications

Postdoctoral or industry experience in high-temperature cell R&D.
Expertise in high-temperature cell preparation, manufacturing, and performance evaluation.
Direct experience in Proton-Conducting Cells (PCCs), including research on proton-conducting ceramics such as BaCeO₃, BaZrO₃, and their derivatives.
Experience with computational modeling (DRT, DFT, FEM simulations, multiphysics modeling) for SOCs and PCCs.
Familiarity with scale-up and industrialization of fuel cell components.
Proven ability to secure research funding, write grant proposals, and lead R&D projects.

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About us

Elcogen is at the forefront of the energy revolution with a huge vision – do you want to join our journey towards market leadership in fuel cell technology and green hydrogen?

Founded in 2001, Elcogen is a manufacturer of clean energy technology that delivers affordable green hydrogen and emission-free electricity. We are a European business with a proud Estonian heritage and a global customer network delivering flexible core solid oxide technology.

Elcogen has its registered office in the UK, and manufacturing facilities in Estonia and Finland that have served 160 customers in 30 countries. Currently, we have 120+ employees working in our Estonian and Finland factories.

Elcogen is an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, nationality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability.

We understand that some highly capable candidates might hesitate to apply for a role unless they meet every listed qualification. If you're excited about this role, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all the requirements. You may be the right candidate for the role.

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We are looking forward to hearing from you!

Hi there, we appreciate your interest in Elcogen. Please fill out the following short form to get in contact with us. If you have difficulties uploading your files, don't hesitate to contact us by mail a people@elcogen.com