Summary:
Empa, Switzerland’s incubator for innovation, is seeking a motivated PhD candidate to investigate lithium- and sodium-based solid-state batteries. This project aims to achieve a mechanistic understanding of electrochemical performance, focusing on ion distribution, transport, and degradation processes using advanced muon-based characterization techniques. The research will contribute to sustainable energy technologies and provide insights into material and device innovation.
PhD Opportunity: Advancing Solid-State Batteries with Muon Spectroscopy at Empa, ETH Zurich, Switzerland
Designation: PhD Position on All-Solid-State Batteries
Table:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | Empa (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology) |
| Department | Laboratory Materials for Energy Conversion |
| Project Focus | Investigation of lithium- and sodium-based solid-state batteries using muon-based bulk and interface characterization techniques. |
| Research Area | Materials Science, Energy Storage, Electrochemistry, Solid-State Batteries, Muon Spectroscopy, Ion Transport, Degradation Mechanisms. |
| Location | Empa’s laboratories in Dübendorf, Switzerland. Enrollment in the doctoral program in Electrical Engineering at ETH Zurich. |
| Eligibility/Qualification | Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field. Experience in electrochemistry or batteries is an advantage. Excellent English skills are required. Enjoy collaborative, interdisciplinary research and value openness and shared progress. |
| Job Description | Conduct research on lithium- and sodium-based solid-state batteries. Gain a mechanistic understanding of electrochemical performance, focusing on ion distribution, transport, and degradation. Utilize muon-based methods for depth-resolved property probing. Design and carry out experiments. Analyze complex datasets. Collaborate with project partners. Disseminate results through publications and presentations. |
| How to Apply | Submit an online application through Empa’s webpage. The application must include a two-page motivation letter, CV, scholarly records, diplomas with transcripts, and at least two reference letters. Applications via email will not be accepted. |
| Last Date for Apply | Not specified in the provided text. |
| Start Date | October 1st, 2026, or upon agreement. |
Research Area: Materials for Energy Conversion, focusing on materials and device innovation for sustainable energy technologies, specifically solid-state batteries.
Location: Empa’s laboratories in Dübendorf, Switzerland. The candidate will be enrolled in the doctoral program in Electrical Engineering at ETH Zurich.
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Experience in electrochemistry or batteries is an advantage.
- Excellent English skills are required.
- Enjoy collaborative, interdisciplinary research and value openness and shared progress.
Job Description:
The PhD project aims to investigate lithium- and sodium-based solid-state batteries using muon-based bulk and interface characterization techniques. The main objective is to gain a mechanistic understanding of electrochemical performance, with a focus on ion distribution, transport, and degradation processes during battery operation. Key questions to be addressed include the formation of Li/Na concentration gradients, the evolution of interphases, and degradation mechanisms. The work will involve experimental design and execution, including muon beamline studies, electrochemical and structural characterization of battery materials and cells, and analysis of complex datasets to connect microscopic processes with macroscopic performance. Close collaboration with project partners and dissemination of results through publications and presentations are expected.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their online application through Empa’s webpage. The application must include:
- A two-page motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Scholarly records
- Diplomas with transcripts
- At least two reference letters
Please note that applications submitted via email will not be accepted.
Last Date for Apply: The provided text does not specify a last date for application.
