Postdoctoral position

Postdoctoral position in materials for energy applications studied using neutron scattering techniques

Do you want to perform cutting-edge research on energy related materials, by developing and using innovative experimental methods at world leading research centers? Then apply for this postdoctoral position!

Project description
Research on materials for energy applications is a key on the pathway towards a sustainable society. Clean and sustainable sources of energy are required to reduce global warming. In this regard, new materials for energy production, storage and conversion need to be developed. We are interested in understanding the very nature of such materials. In particular, we are interested in the surfaces and interfaces, which often play a key role for technological applications, as this is the region where things are actually happening, e.g. charge separation in photovoltaics or the spitting or recombination of water in fuel cells. However, even though for many materials the bulk properties are quite well understood, knowledge about interfaces is still limited, as their investigation is experimentally more challenging.

For energy materials, a critical challenge is to understand the nature of the dynamics at interfaces and in thin films at the atomic scale and how this is related to materials macroscopic properties, such as ionic conductivity. Neutron scattering methods have the potential to address such research questions. In bulk materials neutron scattering methods are routinely used for the study of dynamics but due to the limited brilliance of nowadays neutron sources the methods are challenging to apply to thin films and interfaces. It is expected that this scenario will change with the commissioning of the next-generation neutron source, the European Spallation Source (ESS), which is under construction in Lund, Sweden. Once in operation ESS will be the world leading research center for neutron science and enable completely new studies in materials science. In this research project, the postdoc will take full benefit of this opportunity and develop surface sensitive neutron spectroscopy on the time-of-flight spectrometer TOFTOF at the FRM II Neutron Source in Garching (Germany) with the goal of transferring the technology to ESS and apply it to materials relevant for energy research.

Major responsibilities
The project will be conducted in collaboration between the research groups of assoc. prof. Maths Karlsson, Chalmers, prof. Max Wolff, Uppsala University, and dr. Wiebke Lohstroh, FRM II. The tasks are twofold. Firstly, the postdoctoral researcher will perform cutting-edge research on energy related materials, using neutron scattering techniques. Ideally this work will benefit from strong synergies with the research within the group of M. Karlsson, which has current research activities in energy materials including studies of structure and dynamics of proton and hydride-ion conducting oxides, metal halide perovskites, and inorganic phosphors. Secondly, the postdoctoral researcher will design and develop near-sample optics and specialized sample holders for grazing incidence neutron spectroscopy, benchmark the performance in neutron ray-tracing simulations, perform virtual experiments to evaluate potential limitations of the method, and perform pilot studies on energy related materials in the form of thin films and specially designed neutron resonator samples on TOFTOF and elsewhere. Additionally, the postdoc will be engaged in the outreach of the project, and network with instruments scientists and potential users of the method. The postdoc is expected to spend a substantial amount of time at the FRM II Neutron Source in Germany.

Contract terms
The position is for two years and will support science programs funded by Chalmers University of Technology. The position may be extended up to four years, in case more funding will become available.

Qualifications
We are looking for a highly motivated person with a background in materials science and neutron and/or synchrotron X-ray scattering, and with skills in computer modeling/programming, e.g. with Python, McStas or other high-level languages. Experience with the development of advanced instrumentation (not necessarily related to neutron/x-ray scattering) is an asset. Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or a similar area of science. The degree should generally not be older than three 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 files
The application should be marked with Ref 20210409 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

• Your CV, including a complete list of publications, and two reference persons that can be contacted.
• A personal letter (1 page), where you introduce yourself and describe your motivation for applying to the position.
• Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates.

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

Application deadline: 29 April, 2022

Applications will be reviewed as they come and hence the position may be filled before the application deadline. The position will be advertised until the position is filled.