Researcher in Chemomechanics of Solid-State 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 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

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled researcher to join our team in a cutting-edge project focused on the chemomechanical degradation processes in lithium-based solid-state batteries (SSBs). The overarching goal is to unravel the intricate interplay between electrochemical reactions and mechanical failure mechanisms, such as lithium dendrite formation, particle disintegration, and solid electrolyte cracking, all of which compromise the performance and safety of SSBs. A key technique employed in this project is online acoustic emission sensing, which enables real-time, non-destructive monitoring of internal mechanical events during battery operation. The researcher is expected to:

• Establish and maintain the research infrastructure, including setup and calibration of acoustic emission systems, glovebox integration, and electrochemical workstations.
• Plan, conduct, and analyze electrochemical and chemomechanical experiments on solid-state battery materials and full/half-cell configurations.
• Develop protocols for online acoustic emission monitoring, data acquisition, and correlation with electrochemical and structural degradation processes.
• Write and publish high-quality original research papers in leading peer-reviewed journals.
• Present findings at internal group meetings, local workshops, and major international conferences.
• Supervise and mentor MSc and PhD students, including co-supervision of theses and guidance in lab work and data interpretation.
• Oversee shared laboratory equipment, ensuring functionality, user training, and safety compliance.

Requirements 

• PhD degree in Materials Science, Solid Mechanics, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Strong knowledge and experience in current lithium-ion battery & next-generation battery technologies, especially all-solid-state batteries (sulfide, oxide, polymer types) and lithium metal batteries.
• Demonstrated ability to publish peer-reviewed research and communicate scientific findings effectively.
• Experience in supervising students and managing research infrastructure.
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken), and ability to work both independently and in a team.

We will place great emphasis on personal suitability. Consideration will also be given to i.e. good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen the administrative work within the unit/department, as well as contribute to its future development.

Additional qualifications

In addition to the required qualifications, the following experiences and skills are considered strong merits for the position:

• Familiarity with data analysis and automation tools, such as Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or machine learning frameworks.
• Hands-on experience to build all-solid-state battery and lithium metal battery prototypes and R&D facility set-up
• Demonstrated ability to work in international, multi-disciplinary, and collaborative environments, especially joint academic–industry projects.
• Experience in project coordination, intellectual property rights, lab management, or participation in research infrastructure development initiatives.

About the employment

The employment is a temporary position, 12 months. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 01 September 2025 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact:
Dr. Leiting Zhang, leiting.zhang@kemi.uu.se. 

Please submit your application by 22 August 2025, UFV-PA 2025/2405.