PhD Student in Bio-based Battery Electrolytes at Uppsala University, Sweden

Summary

Uppsala University is offering a PhD position in bio-based battery electrolytes within the Department of Chemistry – Ångström Laboratory. This project aims to develop sustainable battery value chains by implementing bio-based electrolytes from renewable carbon feedstocks in lithium- and sodium-ion batteries, focusing on reducing climate impact, improving safety, and decreasing reliance on fossil raw materials. The research involves experimental work, including liquid electrolyte development, battery assembly, electrochemical techniques, and advanced characterisation methods, with the goal of publishing high-impact research.

Designation

PhD Student

Key Details

Research Area

This project focuses on the development of bio-based battery electrolytes for lithium- and sodium-ion batteries, aiming for a more sustainable battery value chain. Research areas include:

• Development of tailored bio-based electrolytes from renewable carbon feedstocks.
• Study of electrolyte performance with state-of-the-art electrode chemistries.
• Investigation of electrode-electrolyte interfaces.
• Experimental research in liquid electrolyte development and battery assembly.
• Application of various electrochemical techniques (galvanostatic cycling, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy).
• Advanced characterisation methods (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy).

Location

Uppsala, Sweden

Eligibility/Qualification

General Entry Requirements for Doctoral Studies:

• A second-cycle degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a closely related subject, or
• At least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• Essentially equivalent knowledge acquired in Sweden or abroad.

Specific Requirements for this Position:

• Good working knowledge of battery energy storage systems.
• Experience working in an experimental laboratory environment.
• Skills in high-quality academic writing (e.g., research project reports, thesis, or published articles).
• Capability to express oneself clearly, document experimental work efficiently, and collaborate effectively in a research environment.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Additional Qualifications (Merits):

• Previous experience in the research field of electrochemical energy storage, particularly batteries (e.g., through a master thesis project).
• Previous experience working with materials characterisation, especially for battery interfaces.
• Knowledge of organic chemistry, particularly related to organic synthesis and properties of organic molecules.
• Good knowledge of data curation and plotting, electronic laboratory notebooks, Python or similar.
• Excellent grades from second-cycle education.

Scholarship Description

The PhD student will conduct experimental research aimed at developing bio-based electrolytes for lithium- and sodium-ion batteries. This includes liquid electrolyte development, battery assembly, and the use of various electrochemical and advanced characterisation techniques. The role involves performing high-quality research as part of a team, with the objective of disseminating findings through peer-reviewed journals and conferences. Teaching duties may be included, up to a maximum of 20% of working hours, alongside participation in third-cycle courses related to the research topics. The project will be carried out at Uppsala University in close collaboration with the project team and colleagues at the Ångström Advanced Battery Centre.

How to Apply

The application must be submitted online and include the following documents:

• CV
• Copies of degree certificates and grade transcripts
• Master’s thesis or equivalent (final/draft)
• Contact details of two references
• Other documentation supporting the requirements or qualifications

Last Date for Apply

October 16, 2026

Apply Link

https://www.uu.se/en/about-uu/join-us/jobs-and-vacancies/job-details?query=970239