PhD student in Tailoring Battery Materials for Lithium Extraction

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. 

Duties
The primary focus of this PhD project will be on understanding the influence of the compositions of the electrode and electrolyte on electrochemical extraction of lithium from various liquid media. Electrochemical methods for extracting elements such as lithium from aqueous-based solutions are gaining significant attention due to their ability to enhance the sustainability of lithium production. However, the processes are complex, involving a range of chemical and electrochemical reactions that can influence the efficiency and selectivity of the extraction.

The goal therefore is to develop an improved understanding of the extraction process as well as to optimize the composition of the electrodes (containing mainly lithium- or sodium-based cathode materials) and the electrochemical methods. The influence of the composition of the liquid media (i.e., electrolyte) on the efficiency and sustainability of the lithium extraction will also be studied.

 The research will require the use of advanced electrochemical methods and analytical tools, including different spectroscopic techniques. The ultimate goal is to increase the knowledge and understanding within this important research field and thereby contribute to the development of next-generation electrochemical systems for lithium extraction.

The doctoral student will plan and perform experiments as well as take part in collaborations, and gain experience regarding battery science, electrochemistry, electrolyte formulation, and analytical techniques. The PhD student will work in a close collaboration with researchers at the Ångström Advanced Battery Centre (ÅABC).

The main duty of the PhD student is to conduct research. Teaching, up to 20% of the work time, may also be included. In addition, the student will take third-cycle courses related to the research topics. A successful PhD student is expected to perform high quality research as a member of a team, with the aim to disseminate works in high impact peer-reviewed journals, as well as at national and international conferences.

Requirements
The candidate must have:

• been awarded a second-cycle qualification in Chemistry or Materials Science, or
• have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• acquired essentially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.
• very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• knowledge of battery science or electrochemical energy storage systems.
• the capability to express oneself 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 1 September 2025 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
Leif Nyholm, leif.nyholm@kemi.uu.se

Please submit your application by 30 June 2025, UFV-PA 2025/1894.

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