Postdoc position in recycling of lithium-ion batteries - 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 250 employees and has a turnover just over 250 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 programs and Master's programmes.

The Department of Chemistry – Ångström Laboratory has for many years hosted a research environment focused on the development of materials and their applications within the energy storage area: the Ångström Advanced Battery Centre. We develop novel electrode and electrolyte materials, characterize them, evaluate and improve them with respect to battery performance, and study fundamental chemical processes and properties using both experimental and computational techniques. The research is, as such, both fundamental and applied.

Subject description: The primary focus of the project will be on the development of methods for efficient recycling of electrode materials from lithium-ion batteries. Therefore, the main aim of the project is to understand the details of reaction in recycling of electrode materials, especially LiCoO2 and NMC cathodes, in order to improve the efficiency of recycling process. This project will include using deep eutectic solvents to develop a green method for recycling. Methods based on using deep eutectic solvents have the potential to present definite advantages over processing the waste. Different aspects of such systems will be studied including material properties, leaching reactions as well as how they can be used in large scale in industry. The ultimate aim of this project is to increase knowledge and understanding in this field and take the next steps in the development green methods for recycling of materials from lithium-ion batteries.

Work duties: The project will be carried out in Uppsala University in close collaboration with colleagues working in the Ångström Advanced Battery Centre. This project will be performed in a close collaboration with researchers at KTH University.  The main duties of the position will be to conduct research in recycling of lithium-ion batteries. Specifically, this will involve developing methods based on using deep eutectic solvent in order to recycle cobalt, nickel and copper from cathode and anode materials used in lithium-ion batteries. A variety of analytical techniques including infrared spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, etc. will be used for characterisation. The postdoc is expected to perform high quality research, with the aim of disseminating resulting works through high impact peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings.

Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours.

Requirements: For employment as postdoc, the applicant should have a PhD exam or an international equivalent within the field of chemistry or material science or other for the position relevant fields, within a maximum of three (3) years before the final application date. During certain circumstances, an earlier PhD can be acceptable. Certain circumstances include leave due to illness, maternity leave, in trade unions, etc. 

Experience within the recycling research field, working in a laboratory environment, and competences in using analytical methods are essential. The candidate must also have excellent capabilities in written and oral English.

The assessment of applications is based primarily on the applicant's ability to conduct independent research based on scientific skill. Greater importance is attached to the quality of individual scientific work, than to the amount of publications. 

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Additional requirements: Familiarity with materials characterisation techniques are recommended.

Salary: Individual pay.

Starting date: 2021-01-01 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position for two years.

Scope of employment: 100 %

For further information about the position please contact: Reza Younesi (reza.younesi@kemi.uu.se); Andy Naylor (andy.naylor@kemi.uu.se)  

Please submit your application by 4 December 2020, UFV-PA 2020/3919.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.