PhD position in operando battery interface characterization

Would you like to research materials interactions in batteries and become an expert in advanced characterization techniques? Join us at Chalmers and contribute to understanding interfaces and processes in next generation batteries using state-of-the-art experimental methods.

Project description
Stimulated by major needs and challenges in science and a sustainable society, the ambition of the Department of Physics is to foster a creative environment for academic research, learning and outreach. We provide a competitive advantage by linking our top-level international and interdisciplinary academic performance in the areas of material science, nanotechnology, and energy research with world-leading industrial R&D&I projects. We address a wide array of experimental, computational, methodological and theoretical challenges, from fundamental physics research, through the development of new materials to direct industrial projects generating new inventions. We have a strong learning commitment on all levels from undergraduate to PhD studies where physics meet engineering.

The research at the division of Materials Physics is directed towards fundamental molecular level understanding of structure and dynamics of materials in relation to macroscopic function. Energy-related materials for next-generation batteries are a special emphasis, including nano-structured materials for high capacity and high-rate electrodes, innovative electrolyte systems, and metal anode stabilization. We work with theory/modelling as well as experiments, both at in-house laboratories and at synchrotron and neutron facilities.

In this PhD project, we will combine electrochemistry and surface analysis techniques to gain deeper understanding of materials interactions in batteries under working conditions. Specifically, we will work with near-ambient pressure XPS and aim to establish reliable workflows to increase using large scale facilities in fundamental and applied battery research. With interface experiments on model systems as well as practical batteries want to achieve transferable results from model systems to real world batteries. Using this approach, we want to understand interfacial charge transfer and establish interfacial structure/property relationships for the next generation batteries leading to improved materials and interface design. You will have the opportunity to be part of both national and international collaborations.

Major responsibilities
Most of your time will be devoted to your research project, where you will be expected to plan, perform and disseminate your work in both large and small collaborative constellations. You will work in a cross-disciplinary environment and have the opportunity to shape your own research within the scope of the project. You will also be required to complete a course program (60 higher education credits), and participate in teaching activities and other duties (up to 20% of your time). Supervision of BSc and MSc students can also be a part of the work.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a Master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics or equivalent. You should have an interest in materials science, energy technology and sustainability, and very good communication and collaborative skills. Experience in battery research, materials characterization using x-rays, data analysis, electrochemical methods are all considered an advantage.

Fluency in written and spoken English is required.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with reference number 20230777 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, reference number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, ref.number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities)
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, e.g. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

Application deadline: January 15, 2024

For questions, please contact:
Assist. Prof. Julia Maibach
Materials Physics
Email: julia.maibach@chalmers.se

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!