PhD in Inorganic Chemistry - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 200 employees and has a turnover of 200 million SEK. At the department's six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering and civil engineering programs and master's programs. More information is available on our website.

Subject description/research project: This PhD position in inorganic chemistry/materials chemistry focuses on fundamental electrochemical studies of electrodes for lithium-based batteries. The work mainly involves the development of two new concepts (i.e. ‘lithium-trapping’ and ‘planar lithium deposition’) which provide a better explanation for the capacity losses seen for different battery electrode materials and new possibilities for the realization of safe lithium-metal electrodes, respectively. The project will be carried out within the Inorganic Chemistry research program at the Department of Chemistry – Ångström.

Work duties: The work includes fundamental electrochemical studies of electrodes for lithium-based batteries focusing on the development of an improved understanding of the phenomena limiting the lifetimes of different types of electrode materials. These studies, which are based on results obtained by us during the last few years, include the use of a range of electrochemical techniques (e.g. voltammetry, chronopotentiometry and ac impedance) as well as different methods employed for the characterization of the electrodes and electrode materials (e.g. electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and elemental analysis).  The possibility to use electrochemical synthesis for the manufacturing of nanostructured electrode materials will also be investigated. 

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements: A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Requirements:

• Degree or equivalent as above in inorganic chemistry, material chemistry, materials physics or equivalent.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme. 

Additional requirements: The applicant should have a strong interest in fundamental electrochemical research focusing on lithium-based batteries. Experience of experimental work including electrochemistry and/or batteries is advantageous.

Terms of employment: The rules about PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§1-7 and the university's rules and guidelines.

Application procedure: The application should include a statement of research interest, CV, certificates of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of Master thesis, published article or relevant materials, if available. Also, contact information of at least two reference persons should be included. Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

Pay: According to local agreement (Local collective agreement for doctoral students and students).

Starting: 2019-09-01 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position for four years

Working hours: 100 %

For further information about the position, please Contact:
Leif Nyholm, +46 (0)18 4713742, Leif.Nyholm@kemi.uu.se

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 2019-05-31, UFV-PA 2019/1656.