Postdoc position on liquid electrolytes for high-voltage lithium-ion batteries

Empa is the research institute for materials science and technology of the ETH Domain and conducts cutting-edge research for the benefit of industry and the well-being of society.

Empa’s Laboratory Materials for Energy Conversion focuses on materials and device innovation for sustainable energy conversion and storage technologies. We are offering a

Your task is to develop high-voltage electrolytes for next-generation lithium-ion batteries based on silicon-graphite anodes and high-voltage spinel cathodes. A state-of-the-art automated electrolyte mixing and cell assembly system will assist you in the development process. Interface/interphase studies using techniques such as impedance spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy will be an important aspect of your work to understand how selected electrolyte components interact with the electrodes to improve cycling stability.

You will be embedded in a collaborative European research project with ten partners from seven countries. This will enable you to interact with leading European academic and industrial partners including an electrolyte supplier and a cell maker. Within this project, the ability to publish is not restricted. Generation of intellectual property in the form of patents is encouraged.

Our labs are fully equipped for electrolyte development and testing. State-of-the-art facilities include synthesis labs with fume hoods, Schlenk lines, rotary evaporator, temperature-dependent viscosity, conductivity, and density analysis, thermal analysis (TGA, DSC), Raman and FTIR spectrometers, glove boxes, facilities to assemble various cell types including coin cells, pouch cells, and three-electrode cells, electrochemical characterization including battery cyclers, impedance spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometers (including operando cells), etc. Access to NMR (including PFG-NMR), elemental analysis (CHN, ICP-OES, etc.), advanced electron microscopy facilities (SEM, TEM) and surface analytical tools (XPS, ToF-SIMS) is also available.

We are looking for a highly motivated team player ready to work independently in Empa's vibrant international research environment. The ideal candidate possesses a PhD in chemistry, materials science, or related fields. Prior experience in electrochemistry and battery research is an advantage. The lab is located at Empa's main campus in Dübendorf, which is conveniently located next to Zurich, Switzerland.