• Tell us a little bit about your background and what lead you to the position of Fuel Cell Engineer at Cellfion

I have always been passionate about sustainable technology and lately about renewable energies. I hold bachelor's degrees both in chemistry and chemical engineering and I completed my PhD in Material Science. During my PhD studies I became particularly interested in fuel cell technology due to its potential to become one of the leading clean energy industries of the future. To gain practical experience, I dedicated three years of my PhD in new catalysts for fuel cells. Additionally, I spent almost 3 years at Celcibus AB, a start-up which develops precious metal free catalyst for fuel cell. This experience solidified my interest in fuel cell technology and its applications.
Cellfion is one of the few companies in the world advancing with a new generation of ion conducting membranes for fuel cells. I was drawn to Cellfion's dedication to sustainability, their goal of becoming a leading provider of PFAS-free membranes, and their team of highly qualified professionals. The opportunity to work on fuel cell membrane projects and contribute to a greener future is what motivated me to apply for this position.

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• What does the position entail and what do you look forward to most at Cellfion?

The position of Fuel Cell Engineer at Cellfion entails a range of responsibilities focused on the development and optimization of the ion conducting membranes in fuel cells. This includes research and analysis, and participating in testing and validation processes of the membranes. Additionally, the role involves collaborating actively with cross-functional teams and industries to innovate and advance fuel cell technology and potential technologies such as PEM electrolysis and flow batteries.
What excites me the most about this position at Cellfion is the opportunity to be at the forefront of fuel cell technology. I look forward to being a part of a team that is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of clean energy and sustainability. Working at Cellfion means that I can contribute to the development of cutting-edge membrane solutions which can create innovative and efficient fuel cell solutions as well as to have a positive impact on the environment and society as a whole.

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• Who is Walter outside of work? What do you enjoy doing?

Outside of work, I'm a person who values a balanced life. I believe in making the most of my time both professionally and personally. One of my greatest passions are racquet sports. I have played tennis almost my entire life, but in the last years, living in Sweden, I got to know Padel, a fast-pace growing sport in the world. Playing Padel helps me to relax, recharge, stay physically active, and the chance to meet new and interesting people since it is played by four people on the court.
I am also an avid reader. I love to dive into a good book or saga, especially those about fantasy, thrillers or biographical. Reading allows me to relax and for some period of time to fantasize in a different universe. In addition, I am a metal fan. I enjoy going to concerts with friends to headbang a bit.
Spending quality time with my family and friends is very important to me. Whether it is sharing a home-cooked meal, going to restaurants or party, or simply having a great conversation, I value those connections which add a great value to my personal growth.

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• Tell us about the future of sustainable materials in relation to fuel cell and hydrogen technology as you view it and the position Cellfion has in this.

As we move forward, we can expect to see a growing emphasis on eco-friendly and cost-effective materials in the development of fuel cells. Sustainable materials, such as advanced catalysts, membranes, and lightweight components, will be important in enhancing the efficiency and durability of fuel cell systems and their rapid introduction to the market. These materials will not only reduce the environmental footprint but also make fuel cell technology more accessible and economically viable for a wide range of applications.
Cellfion's commitment to innovation and sustainability, combined with its expertise in bio-based ion conducting membranes, will position us at the forefront of advancing sustainable materials. Cellfion's dedication to research and development, as well as its strategic collaborations with industry partners and research institutions, enables the exploration of novel membranes and their integration into not only fuel cells but other cutting-edge technologies such as electrolysers and flow batteries.
Furthermore, Cellfion's approach to sustainability aligns perfectly with the global push toward clean energy and decarbonization. By contributing to the development of sustainable membranes, the company is driving the adoption of fuel cells in various applications, including transportation, stationary power generation, and beyond.

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