PhD student in Battery Interphases Design

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).

Project description
Rechargeable Li-ion batteries are transforming our energy landscape, powering everything from portable devices to electric vehicles. Their exceptional energy density, long cycle life, and flexible design have made them the gold standard in energy storage technology; however, further advancing their performance is crucial to meet future energy challenges. Deeper understanding of the fundamental processes governing battery charge and discharge is key to bringing the technology to the next level. In focus of the project is the design principles of electrode/electrolyte interfaces and interphases. More specifically, the project aims to determine how electrolyte formulation and battery formation reactions govern the kinetics of charge transfer reactions at electrode interfaces and the build-up of surface passivation layers – so called solid electrolyte interphases. The methodology is based on the development and application of high-throughput electrolyte formulation and battery testing via Self-driving Labs. Advanced imaging and pore structure analysis is performed to identify charge-transfer barriers and map ionic transport pathways through the electrodes. The goal is to deepen our understanding of the key parameters governing battery charge rate, lifetime, and safety.

Duties
The doctoral candidate will actively participate in collaborative research efforts with industry and other academic partners, contribute to experimental planning, and carry out laboratory work, gaining in-depth expertise in the science of Li-ion batteries, cell assembly, electrochemistry, electrolyte development, and advanced analytical methodologies.

The core focus of the PhD program is research. Teaching responsibilities may be assigned but will not exceed 20% of the total working hours. The candidate will also complete third-cycle coursework closely aligned with the research themes. We are looking for a highly motivated individual who will contribute to high-quality scientific work within a team setting, aiming to publish findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and present them at both national and international scientific meetings.

Requirements
The candidate must have:

• been awarded a second-cycle qualification, 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.
• second-cycle qualification or equivalent as above in Electrochemistry, Physical Chemistry, Physics, or related field.
• 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.

Additional qualifications
Practical experience in research on batteries, programming and automation is an advantage.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 2025-10-01 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: Prof. Erik Berg (erik.berg@kemi.uu.se)

Please submit your application by 4 August 2025, UFV-PA 2025/1996.

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