Postdoc position on Si anodes for next generation ( solid-state ) Li-ion battery systems

  • FACULTY / DEPARTMENT- Faculty of Applied Sciences
  • JOB TYPE- Postdoc Positions
  • SCIENTIFIC FIELD- Natural sciences
  • HOURS PER WEEK- 38
  • SALARY- € 2,960.00 – € 4,670.00
  • DESIRED LEVEL OF EDUCATION- Doctorate
  • VACANCY NUMBER- TUD03884

Job description

We are looking for a talented and motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on a cutting edge industrial academic collaborative project between HyET Lithium and TU Delft focused on the practical application of Si anodes in next-generation Li-ion ( solid state ) batteries.

The task of the postdoc will be to characterize the Si anodes in full cells initially using liquid electrolytes ( including recently developed electrolyte concepts ) and at a later stage with next generation solid electrolytes. This will be done using a host of electrochemical and analytical techniques available in-house including SEM, XPS and ( operando ) NMR spectroscopy among others, with a focus on the study of the initial formation cycles as well as the SEI stability, which are critical parameters to achieve long term cycling of these Si anodes.

Previous experience working with Li-ion batteries is a pre-requisite while experience working with Si-anodes and advanced characterization of battery materials is desirable. There is extensive expertise and experience within the hosting group also providing ample opportunity for the applicant to build expertise efficiently.     

Job requirements

The researcher should have experimental experience working with Li-ion based battery systems during their doctoral studies. They should be interested in multi-technique based characterization and in communicating the results obtained with the project partners on a regular basis. The position is based at the Storage of Electrochemical Energy ( SEE ) group of the Delft University of Technology, stationed at the TU Delft Reactor Institute. The in-house techniques available include a diversity of electrochemical techniques, neutron and X-ray based techniques and ( operando ) nuclear magnetic resonance, all playing an important role in this project. Good written and spoken communication skills in English are required.  

Working conditions

Candidates will be offered a 3-year period of employment.Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities.The TU Delft offers a customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sports memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work separators can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

TU Delft

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible ( see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Department

The Storage of Electrochemical Energy group of the Radiation Science and Technology department focuses on fundamental processes in next generation batteries using experimental probes as neutron and X-ray scattering as well as solid state NMR and computational approaches including density functional theory calculations. The direct access to these facilities and collaborative atmosphere represents a stimulating environment for research and development. See https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences/about-faculty/departments/radiation-science-technology/research/research-groups/storage-of-electrochemical-energy/     

Additional information

The contract duration for this position is 3 years, and preferable starting date July 2023. To apply, please send a detailed CV along with an application letter before June 15 to Swapna Ganapathy, e-mail: s.ganapathy@tudelft.nl. When applying for this position, make sure to mention the vacancy number. The postdoc will work in the research group of Prof. dr. Marnix Wagemaker.

Application procedure

For information about the selection procedure, please contact Swapna Ganapathy, email: s.ganapathy@tudelft.nl.