Postdoctoral researcher in renewable energy sources Full-time NEW

Postdoctoral Researcher In Renewable Energy Sources

We are now looking for a postdoctoral researcher in renewable energy sources at Uppsala University, Department of Electrical Engineering. The position is placed at the Division of Integrated Smart Systems Technology, within the Department of Electrical Engineering. Here you will find a welcoming working environment with an active doctoral student network and a variety of experimental projects. The division collaborates with Swedish companies – both public and private – as well as other stakeholders within the various research areas. We look forward to receiving your application. Join us in building the future!

Cellulose, the most abundant biopolymer, is vital for sustainable materials and energy technologies. Its moisture-dependent electrical conductivity impacts bio-based electronics, sensors, insulation, and green composites. Reliable methods to measure and interpret this conductivity advance both fundamental science and applications such as energy storage, energy transmission, smart packaging, and biodegradable systems.

Understanding cellulose conductivity is especially critical for power transformer insulation used in HVDC (High Voltage DC) transmission system, where oil-impregnated cellulose plays a central role. The electrical conductivity of oil‑impregnated cellulose is strongly influenced by the specific transformer oil used and, more importantly, by the moisture content and the moisture exchange dynamics between oil and cellulose. Numerous studies show that even small amounts of moisture can dramatically increase the conductivity of impregnated pressboard. Despite this, a major knowledge gap remains: the behavior of the electric double layer (EDL) at the oil–cellulose interface. The EDL governs interfacial charge transfer, streaming electrification, and ultimately the macroscopic electrical response of the system. A deeper understanding of this interfacial charge structure is essential for predicting and controlling insulation performance under HVDC conditions.

This project aims to develop new experimental protocols together with a complementary theoretical framework to probe interfacial charge structure. A central objective is to uncover the origin, distribution, and impact of interfacial charges within the EDL—under static conditions as well as during oil flow, where streaming electrification becomes significant.

Duties

• Develop and run advanced AC/DC I–V measurements, impedance spectroscopy protocols, and time‑resolved electrical characterization of oil impregnated cellulose material and its interface.
• Build, calibrate, and optimize electrical measurement setup, including material preparation e.g. oil-impregnated cellulose, moisture conditioning, shielding, and automation.
• Investigate charge transfer, electric double‑layer formation, and electrochemical kinetics at solid–liquid interfaces.
• Conduct quantitative modeling, equivalent‑circuit fitting, and parameter extraction; prepare technical reports, manuscripts, and scientific presentations based on research findings.

Qualifications Required

• Doctoral degree or a foreign degree equivalent to a doctoral degree in experimental physics, electrical engineering, or materials science.
• The degree needs to be obtained by the time of the decision of employment. Priority will be given to applicants who have completed their degree no more than three years before the deadline for applications. 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 candidate should have a solid background in electrical measurement techniques such as AC/DC current-voltage measurements, impedance spectroscopy.
• We place great emphasis on personal qualities such as constructive, collaborative, and research‑driven mindset.
• The candidate must have excellent communication skills in English, both orally and in writing.

Qualifications Desired

• Prior work involving electrochemical systems, electrode interfaces, or interfacial charge transfer processes.
• Proven experience with AC/DC current–voltage characterization, impedance spectroscopy, and related electronic measurement methods.
• Ability to work across physics, engineering, and materials science domains, contributing to a collaborative research environment.
• Ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot electrical measurement setup.
• Familiarity with quantitative analysis, modeling, and interpretation of electrical or electrochemical data.

About The Employment

Fixed-term employment for 24 months in accordance with the central collective agreement. Full-time position. Start date: 2026-08-01 or as agreed. Location: Uppsala.

For further information about the position, please contact: Associate Professor, Apurba Dev, Apurba.dev@angstrom.uu.se, +46 18 471 1077. Dr. Joachim Schiessling, joachim.schiessling@hitachienergy.com

Application instructions: The application should include 1) a cover letter describing yourself, your research interests and why you are applying for the position, 2) your CV, 3) a brief description of your education, 4) a copy of your doctoral degree certificate and academic transcripts, as well as a copy of your doctoral thesis, 5) any other documents you wish to refer to, 6) the names and contact details of referees (email address and telephone number), and 7) any publications. The application should be written in English.

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 2026-05-15. UFV-PA 2026/1217.