PhD in understanding of ageing in sodium-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 270 employees and has a turnover of 290 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 programs. More information is available on our website. (https://kemi.uu.se/angstrom/?languageId=1).

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Duties
The primary focus of this PhD project will be on understanding of ageing in sodium-ion batteries. This includes understanding the role of liquid electrolyte components on formation of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and related ageing mechanisms. The ageing in rechargeable batteries is a complicate phenomenon where several chemical and electrochemical reactions can lead to degradation of batteries. The goal therefore is to improve life-time of sodium-ion batteries using optimized and well-functioning liquid electrolytes and addressing related ageing mechanisms. The project will require use of specially designed battery cells, and use of advanced electrochemical methods and analytical tools such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and mass spectroscopy.

Different aspects of electrolytes will be studied including chemistry of electrolyte solvents, salts, and additives, the influence of temperature and cycling rates. The ultimate aim of this project is to increase knowledge and understanding in this field and take the next steps in the development of liquid electrolytes for sodium-ion batteries.

The doctoral student will be involved in the collaborations, planning and performing experiments and thereby becoming experienced in battery science, electrochemistry, electrolyte formulation, and analytical techniques.

The main duties involved in the doctoral studies are in conducting research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The student will also take third-cycle courses related to the research topics. The successful candidate is expected to perform high quality research as part of a team, with the aim of disseminating resulting works through high impact peer-reviewed journals, and at national and international conferences.

Requirements
The candidate must have:

• been awarded a second-cycle qualification in Chemistry of Materials Science, or
• satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• acquired essentially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.
• very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• knowledge in battery science or in electrochemical energy storage systems.
• the capability to express yourself clearly, document experimental work, and work with others in a research environment

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.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 1st of October 2023 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala.

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

For further information about the position, please contact: Reza Younesi, reza.younesi@kemi.uu.se

Please submit your application by 7th of September 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3013. 

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