Postdoc position in anode-free solid-state batteries Full-time NEW

Postdoc Position In Anode-Free Solid-State Batteries

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral 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 postdoctoral researcher is expected to:

• Synthesize solid electrolytes and characterize their physicochemical properties.
• Plan, conduct, and analyze electrochemical and chemomechanical experiments on anode-free solid-state batteries in full/half-cell configurations.
• Establish and maintain the research infrastructure, including setup and calibration of acoustic emission systems, glovebox integration, and electrochemical workstations.
• 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:

• Strong knowledge and experience in current lithium-ion battery & next-generation battery technologies, especially (anode-free) all-solid-state batteries and lithium metal batteries.
• Hands-on experience to build (anode-free) all-solid-state batteries 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 the ability to work both independently and in a team.

Additional qualifications:

PhD degree in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field. The degree needs to be obtained by the time of the decision of employment. Those who have obtained a PhD degree three years prior to the application deadline are primarily considered for the employment. The starting point of the three-year frame period is the application deadline. Due to special circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier. The three-year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, duties in labour unions, etc.

The assessment of applications is based primarily on the applicant's ability to conduct independent research based on scientific skill. Greater importance is attached to the quality of individual scientific work, than to the amount of publications.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant's experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Desirable qualifications:

Advanced knowledge and/or practical experience in programming tools, such as Python and MATLAB, or machine learning frameworks will be beneficial.

About the employment: The employment is a temporary position of two years according to central collective agreement. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date August 1, 2026 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 1 June 2026, UFV-PA 2026/1619.