Postdoc position in the development of lithium-based solid-state batteries with polymer electrolytes

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 300 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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Project description
The research project will focus on developing lithium-based solid-state batteries with polymer electrolytes and composite electrolytes. The project will entail implementing solid electrolytes into cells and investigating their electrochemical performance. Emphasis will be given to characterize interphases within the composite electrolyte components, towards a high voltage cobalt-free cathode and lithium metal anode.

Work duties
The main duties involved in the post-doctoral position is to conduct research in the project mentioned above. The postdoc is expected to perform high quality research, with the aim of disseminating resulting works through high impact peer-reviewed journals or at national and international conferences. Strong collaboration with colleagues in the Department of Chemistry Ångström and project partners across Europe will be expected. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours.

Requirements
PhD degree or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD degree in Chemistry, Physics or related subject. The degree needs to be obtained by the time of the decision of employment. Those who have obtained a PhD degree three years prior to the application deadline are primarily considered for the employment. The starting point of the three-year frame period is the application deadline. Due to special circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier. The three-year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, duties in labour unions, etc.

Experience with solid electrolytes, battery assembly, working in gloveboxes, electrochemical testing and ex situ characterization of electrodes after cycling is essential. Very good oral and written proficiency in English is required as well as high motivation and curious mindset.

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.

Desirable qualifications
Advanced knowledge and/or practical experience in polymer electrolytes will be beneficial. Experience with electrochemical and interphase characterization techniques (XPS, SEM, EIS) is also desirable.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position of 2 years according to central collective agreement. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 01.12.2024 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

 For further information about the position, please contact: Guiomar Hernández, guiomar.hernandez@kemi.uu.se .

Please submit your application by 21 October 2024, UFV-PA 2024/3186.

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