European PhD Hydrogen Conference
The European PhD Hydrogen Conference (EPHyC) is the only event of its kind dedicated exclusively to PhD researchers in Europe working at the forefront of hydrogen innovation. EPHyC promotes a unique environment for high-level technical exchange and cross-border collaboration among early-career scientists, but what makes it truly unique is its "for PhDs, by PhDs" approach: while Hydrogen Europe Research provides the overarching leadership and organisational framework, the conference is driven by a dedicated team of PhD students who shape the program and technical content.
To reflect the diversity of the European research landscape, the conference adopts a rotating location model, changing hosts and cities every year. This ensures that every edition brings fresh perspectives and new regional insights to the community.
Following the success of the inaugural event organised by the BeHyfe team in Belgium in 2024, the 2025 edition moved to the heart of Italy’s innovation hub: hosted by the University of Trieste in partnership with the North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley, the event brought researchers together from 9 to 11 April 2025. In 2026, the European PhD Hydrogen Conference was hosted in Trondheim (Norway) in early June, providing an exceptional setting for the next generation of researchers to share their work and expand their professional networks.
In May 2027, EPHyC will move to Sønderborg, Denmark, where Hydrogen Europe Research and the University of Southern Denmark will welcome the European PhD hydrogen research community for the fourth edition of the conference.
2026 Conference in Trondheim
The third edition of the EPHyC conference took place in Trondheim, Norway, bringing together 150 PhD researchers from across Europe. Organised by SINTEF, HYDROGENi and NTNU, in cooperation with the H2SCIENCE conference, the 2026 edition offered three days of scientific exchange, covering the latest developments in hydrogen research and providing a platform for young researchers to present their work, share ideas and connect with peers from across Europe.
Beyond the scientific sessions, the conference offered a range of memorable experiences. The icebreaker gave participants the chance to explore Trondheim from the water by kayak, while an evening concert in the Nidaros Cathedral provided a unique cultural experience in one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
2025 Conference in Trieste
The second edition of the EPHyC conference was a great success, bringing together in Trieste, Italy, over 155 PhD presenters from 85 institutions across Europe. The 2025 program balanced rigorous science with unforgettable networking experiences. Participants enjoyed a unique ice-breaker boat tour to Slovenia, visiting the picturesque town of Piran, and gathered for a dinner at the Museo dell’Immaginario Scientifico.
The scientific program was impressive, featuring a site visit to the Elettra Sincrotrone, providing researchers with a firsthand look at world-class research infrastructure.
2024 Conference in Ghent
The inaugural edition of the EPHyC conference set a high bar, welcoming more than 170 PhD presenters from 87 institutions across 19 countries.
Held in the picturesque city of Ghent, Belgium, at the lively Zebrastraat venue, this first edition successfully launched the series with a diverse programme: from high-level hydrogen research presentations and keynote speeches to industry meet-ups, workshops, and site visits at the Anglo Belgian Corporation, the event established a platform for networking and social engagement that continues to grow today.
