Summary
Linköping University is offering a PhD scholarship in Mixed Ionic–Electronic Materials for Thermal Energy Harvesting. This position is part of the European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant project “High-Efficiency Thermal Energy Harvesting via Ionic Thermoelectric–Electronic Bridging (HEAT-BRIDGE)”. The project aims to develop new methods for efficiently converting low-grade heat into electricity, focusing on mixed ionic–electronic conducting (MIEC) materials and their integration into soft electrochemical devices. The successful candidate will conduct research on materials development, characterization, and device integration, contributing to cutting-edge advancements in sustainable energy technologies.
PhD Scholarship in Mixed Ionic–Electronic Materials for Thermal Energy Harvesting at Linköping University, Sweden
Designation
PhD Student in Mixed Ionic–Electronic Materials for Thermal Energy Harvesting
Scholarship Details
| Scholarship Type | PhD Scholarship |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Linköping University |
| Department | Department of Science and Technology, Laboratory of Organic Electronics (LOE) |
| Program | Doctoral Studies |
| Duration | Normally four years full-time equivalent (up to five years with teaching/departmental duties) |
| Salary | Starting at SEK 35,300 per month (subject to annual review and progression) |
| Benefits | Paid vacation, paid maternity/paternity leave, accrued pension, access to Swedish health-care and social insurance system. |
Research Area
- Mixed Ionic–Electronic Materials for Thermal Energy Harvesting
- High-Efficiency Thermal Energy Harvesting via Ionic Thermoelectric–Electronic Bridging (HEAT-BRIDGE)
- Ionic thermoelectrics, electrochemistry, mixed ionic–electronic materials, and soft electronics
- Fundamental materials and transport phenomena
- Advanced functional materials
- Deformable energy-harvesting devices
Location
Department of Science and Technology, Campus Norrköping, Linköping University, Sweden
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Physics, Materials Science, Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field, OR completed courses with a minimum of 240 credits (at least 60 in advanced courses relevant to the position), OR equivalent knowledge gained otherwise.
- A strong academic background in physics, materials science, applied physics, chemical engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Knowledge of electronic and/or ionic transport in functional materials.
- Hands-on experience with experimental materials preparation, device fabrication, and/or physical characterization.
- Ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English.
Meritorious Research Experience
- Mixed ionic–electronic conductors, conducting polymers, carbon-based materials, or other functional electronic materials.
- Polymer composites, functional soft materials, membranes, separators, or other materials for electrochemical devices.
- Electrical and ionic transport characterization in functional materials.
- Structural and morphological characterization techniques (e.g., electron microscopy, X-ray-based techniques).
- Thermoelectric materials and devices, or thermal energy harvesting.
- Fabrication and characterization of flexible, soft, or deformable electronic or electrochemical devices.
Personal Qualities
- Highly motivated and curious researcher with strong interest in functional materials, charge transport, and energy conversion.
- Creativity, persistence, and strong problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively with researchers from different scientific backgrounds.
- Good communication skills and willingness to explore research questions across traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Scholarship Description
The PhD student will join the Laboratory of Organic Electronics (LOE) at Linköping University, under the supervision of Asst. Prof. Nara Kim. The research will focus on developing and characterizing soft MIEC materials and functional separator materials, investigating electronic and ionic transport, and integrating these materials into soft and deformable thermal energy-harvesting devices. The role involves comprehensive characterization and optimization of electrical, electrochemical, mechanical, and energy-conversion performance, as well as fabrication and validation of multi-cell devices. The student will be expected to analyze experimental data, publish results in scientific journals, present at international conferences, and collaborate with national and international research partners. The position offers a dynamic, international, and collaborative research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the Linköping University online application portal by clicking the “Apply” button on the original vacancy page. Applications and documents received after the deadline will not be considered.
Required Application Documents:
- Letter of application, including a statement of purpose.
- CV, including details of education, research experience, and language skills.
- Degree certificates, transcripts, and a copy (or draft) of your master’s thesis.
- List of publications (if any).
- Contact details of two references.
- Copy of passport.
Last Date for Apply
November 9th, 2026
Apply Link
https://liu.se/en/work-at-liu/vacancies/29857
