PhD student in X-ray Spectroscopy on Sodium Ion Batteries - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The research conducted at the Department of Physics and Astronomy encompasses a wide range of physics topics, distributed over ten divisions. The department is located in the Ångström laboratory and employs nearly 400 people, 125 of whom are doctoral students. It offers a broad physics curriculum to undergraduate and graduate students, participation in nationally and internationally leading projects for researchers, and opportunities for partnership with industry and various outreach activities. More information to be found on our website www.physics.uu.se.

The Division of X-ray Photon Science is world-leading in the development of x-ray-based spectroscopy. It includes the program Condensed Matter Physics of Energy Materials focussing on research that promote understanding of electronic properties at the atomic level in new functional materials for applications in energy and environmental science.

Project description
Rechargeable batteries are part of a future-oriented energy storage system whose energy stems from renewable energy sources. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are sought after for their high energy density and have been developed into a well-established technology. Sodium ion batteries (SIB) are considered to be an extremely interesting and versatile candidate for future generation battery technology that also takes into account the environmental and cost aspects of society. We focus our studies on the SIB cathode material of batteries because their capacity limitations constitute a critical bottleneck for achieving better battery performance. At present, the performance of SIB:s is still lagging that of LIB:s. Fortunately, however, there are still a large variety of SIB systems to explore. For this purpose, we perform advanced X-ray spectroscopy experiments and illuminate basic processes at an atomic level. We analyze our results using state-of-the-art theoretical calculations. We are looking for a doctoral student who is highly motivated to carry out and analyze synchrotron-based experiments in a dynamic research group that aims to contribute to cutting-edge research in energy materials, especially rechargeable batteries.

The successful candidate for this PhD student position will have opportunity to study a wide variety of sodium ion battery and related materials using synchrotron-based x-ray methodology such as x-ray absorption spectroscopy and resonant inelastic x-ray scattering, as well as a electron spectroscopies. The PhD student will be part of a closely collaborating research team that share the same general goal of unraveling the mechanisms that take place in these interesting and challenging energy storage materials.

Work duties
Perform synchrotron radiation experiments on ex situ SIB/LIB cathodes as part of the RIXS Battery group team Drive the development of operando and in situ x-ray methodology in collaboration with MAX IV beamline activities Actively engage in chemical sample preparation work of promising SIB materials together with our collaborating Chemistry department groups Study and to apply theoretical methodology with guidance from the Materials Theory group at Ångström Laboratory

The position as a Ph.D. student is limited to four years of full-time studies, consisting of research and coursework. Other duties at the department, related to teaching and administration, may extend the position at a level of most 20%. Further information is available at www.physics.uu.se.

Requirements
The applicant should be highly motivated to pursue experimental synchrotron-based research in an active team with interest to immerse oneself into calculational aspects as well as chemical sample preparation aspects. The applicant is expected to hold a master’s degree or equivalent in physics (possibly chemistry) with a solid education in basic condensed matter physics.

Good command of the English language in both spoken and written form is a requirement.

Additional qualifications
Documented prior experience of any of the following subjects will be considered as additional merit: x-ray methodology/spectroscopy at synchrotron radiation facilities, energy-related methodologies such as synthesis and characterization of Li/Na-ion batteries, DFT calculations of solid state materials.

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

Application
The application should include a personal letter, explaining scientific interests and motivation for pursuing a Ph.D. degree, CV, and a verified list of course grades. If available, a Master’s thesis (finished or in draft form) can also be included. Also, contact information of at least two reference persons should be included.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.

Starting date: 01-12-2021 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %.

For further information about the position please contact: Laurent Duda laurent.duda@physics.uu.se.

Please submit your application by 17 november 2021, UFV-PA 2021/4022.

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