PhD Position – Characterization of Metallic Lithium as Anode Material by in-situ Scanning Probe Microscopy

Your Job:

Metallic Lithium is considered as a future anode material in Lithium-Ion-Batteries because of its high energy density. Currently, challenges include an exact understanding of the dendrite formation origin and how this could be prevented. Furthermore, the mechanical behavior and the influence of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on metallic lithium, even under protective atmosphere, are not sufficiently understood. As part of your doctoral research, you will optimize the design of interfaces on metallic lithium in a systematic approach of spatially resolved mapping of properties based on atomic force microscopy. The project is embedded in a larger German-American consortium. Your tasks include:

• Preparation of samples for scanning probe microscopy experiments
  
• Characterization of metallic Lithium samples in terms of their electronic and ionic conductivities on a local scale, as well as with respect to the chemical composition of the surface
  
• Application of sophisticated SPM modes (AFM, LFM, KPFM, QNM) to gain a better fundamental understanding of the fundamental properties of the anode material
  
• Evaluation, documentation and publication of the obtained data via reports, manuscripts and presentations
  
• Cooperation with and co-supervision of intern and master students
  
• Contribution in this BMBF project and communication with project partners

Your Profile:

• Excellent masters degree in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science or other related fields
  
• Profound knowledge in experimental Physical Chemistry
  
• Experiences in the field of Scanning Probe Microscopy and/or Electrochemistry
  
• High motivation, as well as strong skills and enjoyment in practical work
  
• Willingness to contribute to lab and instrumental responsibilities
  
• Strong ability to work in a team and communication skills
  
• Excellent communication skills in English

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• Comprehensive training courses and individual opportunities for personal and professional further development
  
• Extensive company health management
  
• Ideal conditions for balancing work and private life, as well as a family-friendly corporate policy
  
• Flexible work (location) arrangements, e.g. remote work
  
• 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g. between Christmas and New Year)
  
• Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/judocs
  
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service
  

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years. Pay in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: https://www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.