Postdoc in solid-state batteries – Modelling & synthesis of electrolytes Full-time NEW

Postdoc in Solid-State Batteries – Modelling & Synthesis of Electrolytes

Next leap in the battery development is expected to be the lithium solid-state batteries (SSB), allowing the replacement of the flammable organic electrolyte in Li-ion batteries with a safer and a more compact solid electrolyte. Within the framework of the Swedish governmental battery initiative COMPEL, aimed to support competence and excellence in battery research and education for the transport sector, KTH join forces with a coordinated initiative on composite SSB with seven postdoctoral positions in several disciplines, focusing on various aspects along the battery value chain, ranging from synthesis, cell assembly, characterization, modeling to scaled-up manufacturing. The 2-year postdoc project Atomistic modelling and synthesis of ceramic electrolytes for solid state batteries will be shared between Depts Material Science & Engineering ITM (Unit of Properties) and Chemistry (Div. Applied Physical Chemistry) CBH. The project aims to investigate and develop novel ceramic electrolytes for next-generation composite solid-state batteries. Particularly halides and sulfides are of interest. By integrating atomistic simulations with experimental validation, the research will identify the structural and chemical features that govern their performance. Building on these insights, computational methods will be used to explore and design new composite architectures with enhanced properties. Promising materials will be identified through simulations, synthesized, and experimentally characterized. Ionic transport properties, interfacial stability, and overall suitability for solid-state battery applications will be evaluated and these results will inform simulations of new materials.

Qualifications

Requirements

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree in Physics, Inorganic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related subject with experience in electrochemistry. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English, as this will be required in day-to-day work.
• Strong laboratory and computational skills.
• Awareness of diversity and equal treatment issues with a particular focus on gender equality.

Preferred qualifications

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline.
• Experience in solid-state batteries and well-acquainted with electrochemical characterization techniques of batteries.
• Direct first-hand experience with both inorganic synthesis and DFT modeling including wet chemical synthesis, glovebox/Schlenk line use, solid-state chemistry, in addition to modelling inorganic materials by DFT (VASP, quantum espresso, etc.).
• An innovative mindset and ability to work independently.
• Good collaborative skills and abilities and interest in working in a team.

Great emphasis will be placed on personal skills.