Summary
The Department of Chemistry at Stockholm University is inviting applications for a fully-funded PhD position in Materials Chemistry. This role falls under the Horizon Europe (HORIZON-MSCA-2025-DN-01) program and focuses on designing and developing multifunctional ion-conductive polymers derived from biomass to stabilize the anode/electrolyte interface in rechargeable aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs). The project involves collaboration with international consortium partners, including three required secondments (totalling 9 months) abroad.
Fully-Funded PhD in Materials Chemistry: Sustainable Battery Tech at Stockholm University, Sweden
Designation
PhD Student (Doctoral Candidate)
Key Details Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Institution | Stockholm University |
| Department | Department of Chemistry |
| Supervisors | Prof. Jiayin Yuan (Main), Prof. Aji Mathew (Co-supervisor) |
| Contract Type | Temporary, Full-time (up to 4 years) |
| Employment Type | 100% Full-time equivalent |
| Salary | Fixed Salary |
| Reference Number | SU FV-2159-26 |
| Published Date | July 20, 2026 |
Research Area
Materials Chemistry; specifically focusing on polymer chemistry, sustainable chemistry, battery operations, and ionic conductors.
Location
Stockholm, Stockholms län, Sweden
Eligibility/Qualification
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following entry requirements:
General Entry Requirements:
- Completion of a second-cycle (Master’s) degree, OR
- Completion of courses equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits (with at least 60 credits at the second-cycle level), OR
- Acquisition of equivalent knowledge in Sweden or elsewhere.
Special Entry Requirements:
- A Bachelor’s degree with a major in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or physics.
- Completion of an independent research project comprising at least 30 higher education credits at an advanced level.
MSCA Mobility Rules:
- Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Sweden for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the recruitment date.
- The applicant must not currently hold a doctoral degree.
Job Description
As a PhD candidate in this program, you will:
- Develop multifunctional ion-conductive polymers aiming to improve the anode-electrolyte interface stability and long-term cycle life of rechargeable aqueous ZIBs.
- Design sustainable, biomass-derived polymer coatings that ensure efficient Zn²⁺ transport while suppressing side reactions.
- Assemble and test symmetrical Zn||Zn cells and full cells to analyze performance and monitor the mechanical adaptability of polymers during zinc plating.
- Collaborate with international partners, notably a theory group handling modeling and molecular dynamics simulation.
- Complete 3 mandatory secondments (totaling 9 months) at partner institutions within the consortium.
- Devote yourself primarily to your doctoral education, with a maximum of 20% of your time potentially allocated to departmental teaching, research assistance, and administration.
How to Apply
- Navigate to Stockholm University’s official recruitment portal.
- Click the “Login and apply” button.
- Fill out the application form and attach your Personal Letter, CV, and any other required documentation as specified in the recruitment system.
- Ensure that your application is fully complete and submitted before the deadline.
Last Date for Apply
September 15, 2026
