Summary
Aalborg University (AAU Energy) is inviting applications for a 3-year PhD stipend position focused on the development of acoustic-based diagnostic methods for Li-ion and post-Li-ion batteries. The project aims to replace destructive or standard electrical measurements with non-invasive acoustic technology to improve battery performance assessment and aging diagnostics.
PhD Scholarship: In-Operando Diagnostics of Li-ion and Post-Li-ion Batteries Using Acoustic Technology at Aalborg University
Key Information
| Designation | PhD Student / PhD Stipend |
| Research Area | Energy Engineering, Battery Diagnostics, Acoustic Technology |
| Location | Aalborg, Denmark |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Start Date | November 15, 2026 (or soon thereafter) |
| Application Deadline | October 30, 2026 |
Research Area
The research focuses on establishing a mechanistic understanding of the coupling between battery ageing mechanisms and measured acoustic signals. The project involves designing and building a setup for sensing acoustic emissions in coin cells, carrying out degradation tests, and developing a physics-validated model for battery diagnostics. The target is to create an algorithm that is 25% more accurate and 50% less energy-demanding than traditional diagnostic approaches.
Designation
PhD Fellow / PhD Stipend within the General Study Program at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science.
Location
The position is based at the Aalborg campus of Aalborg University, within the Department of Energy (AAU Energy).
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Degree: Must hold an M.Sc. degree in electrical engineering, energy engineering, or mechatronics.
- Technical Skills: Interest or experience in battery testing, sensing instrumentation, and signal processing.
- Preferred Experience: Knowledge of electrical characterization of batteries, ultrasonic sensing, and data-driven modeling (MATLAB or Python).
- Pedagogical Skills: Experience with Problem Based Learning (PBL) is required for student supervision duties.
- Language: Strong communication skills in English (written and spoken) are mandatory. Danish language skills are a plus but not required.
Scholarship Description
The PhD stipend is awarded for a period of three years. As part of the program, the successful candidate will:
- Complete PhD courses equivalent to 30 ECTS.
- Engage in teaching and supervision of B.Sc. and M.Sc. student projects.
- Conduct an external research stay (typically 3-6 months) at a foreign research institution.
- Contribute to high-quality publications and conference presentations.
- Benefit from a salary and employment terms governed by the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the Aalborg University recruitment system. The application package must include:
- A letter of application stating reasons for applying and qualifications.
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Diplomas for both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, including full transcripts/grades.
- Any other relevant documentation supporting the application.
Shortlisting will be applied, and selected candidates will undergo an assessment by qualified experts. For further inquiries, candidates may contact Daniel-Ioan Stroe at dis@energy.aau.dk.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for all applications is October 30, 2026.
