Key responsibilities include:

• Provide technical leadership of the fuel cell MEA and catalyst research and technology development team to develop novel commercially viable products incorporating intellectual property generated by the team.
• Establish and lead the customizable MEA development from technology readiness levels, TRL 1 (concept) through TRL 6 (scale-up to lab prototype).
• Engage with industry and customers to understand market requirements and technical specifications and transfer these into technology development programmes and work plans.
• Integrate advanced technologies and South African innovations from R&D into future MEA products.
• Develop comprehensive local competence with the goal to contribute to and support domestic manufacturing in South Africa.
• Transfer internationally and locally recognized knowledge, skills and expertise to the HySA Community and provide mentorship to the HySA community.
• Assist with the business planning, the budgeting process and technical reporting requirements of all relevant projects.

Requirements for the position:

• MSc degree (or higher) in Engineering or closely relevant Science discipline.
• Minimum of five years’ relevant fuel cell industrial experience specifically in MEA and fuel cell development, at a mid-to-senior level.
• Proven track record of relevant experience in knowledge and understanding of PEMFC electrocatalyst and MEA development, preparation, fabrication, characterisation, and testing methodologies.
• Proven experience leading diverse technical teams in this field.
• Demonstrable ability to engage with a variety of stakeholders from academic, private and government sectors.
• Exceptional communication skills, customer service skills, project management skills, and relevant technical knowledge and skills.
• Ability to manage finances and be commercially oriented.

     The following will be advantageous:

• Experience in stack development.
• Research experience and sourcing funding.