PhD in Chemistry targeting synchrotron and neutron studies of solid-state batteries

Published: 2022-06-16

Uppsala University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with a strong international standing. Our ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a long-term difference in society. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. Uppsala University has over 54,000 students, more than 7,500 employees and a turnover of around SEK 8 billion.

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 230 employees and has a turnover of 220 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 . 

The Department of Chemistry – Ångström Laboratory has for many years hosted a research environment focused on the development of materials and their applications within the energy storage area: the Ångström Advanced Battery Centre. We develop novel electrode and electrolyte materials, characterise them, evaluate and improve them with respect to battery performance, and study fundamental chemical processes and properties using both experimental and computational techniques. The research is, as such, both fundamental and applied.

Description of research project
Solid-state batteries constitute a rapidly expanding application area, where the solid electrolyte and its interplay with the battery electrodes is vital for the functionality. Much of the fundamental surface chemistry and transport mechanisms in these devices are, however, still necessary to discover and understand. Within this PhD project, this field will be researched by utilizing advanced research infrastructure, not least synchrotron and neutron sources, for imaging and analysis.

Work duties
Performing synthesis and fabrication of relevant solid electrolytes, implement them in batteries, operate these electrochemically while studying different chemical and electrochemical processes by synchrotron radiation and neutron scattering – ex-situ, in-situ and in operando. The aim is to clarify and understand surface chemistry, reactivity, transport processes and morphology development.The work includes international collaboration.The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Eligibility requirements
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.
  

Required qualifications:

• Degree or equivalent as above in Chemistry, Physics or Materials Science.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Desirable qualifications
A background within material science is desired, with Physics and/or Chemistry specialization and including materials synthesis. Experience of electrochemistry and batteries is valuable, as is experience from working with soft matter. Also valuable is experience of diffraction and imaging techniques, as well as spectroscopy and photoelectron spectroscopy techniques. Experiences of work at synchrotron or neutron facilities is a plus. Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Therules about PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§1-7 and the university's rules and guidelines . 

Application procedure
The application should include a statement of research interest, CV, certificates of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of Master thesis, published article or relevant materials, if available. Also, contact information of at least two reference persons should be included.

Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %.Starting date 2022-09-01 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala.

For further information about the position, please contact: Professor Kristina Edström, +46-18-4713713, Docent Jonas Mindemark, +46-18-4713759.

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 15 July 2022, UFV-PA 2022/2492.

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Submit your application through Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Placement: Department of Chemistry - Ångström Laboratory

Type of employment: Full time , Temporary position longer than 6 months

Pay: Fixed salary

Number of positions: 1

Working hours: 100 %

Town: Uppsala

County: Uppsala län

Country: Sweden

Union representative: Seko Universitetsklubben [email protected]
ST/TCO [email protected]
Saco-rådet [email protected]

Number of reference: UFV-PA 2022/2492

Last application date: 2022-07-15

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