Scholarship Description
Linköping University is offering a PhD student position in Ionic Thermoelectrics and Electrochemistry 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 efficient conversion of low-grade heat into electricity, combining ionic thermoelectrics, electrochemistry, mixed ionic–electronic materials, and soft electronics. The successful candidate will focus on developing and investigating advanced electrolyte and redox-active material systems for next-generation thermal energy harvesting.
PhD Student in Ionic Thermoelectrics and Electrochemistry for Thermal Energy Harvesting at Linköping University
As a PhD student, you will primarily dedicate your time to research studies. Your work will involve material development and characterization, investigation of ion–polymer interactions, selection and electrochemical characterization of redox-active materials, integration of materials into soft devices, and optimization of energy-conversion performance. You will also contribute to scalable fabrication and validation of multi-cell devices, analyze experimental data, publish results, and present at international conferences. Teaching or other departmental duties may be included, up to a maximum of 20% of full-time.
Designation
PhD Student
Key Details
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Linköping University |
| Department | Department of Science and Technology, Campus Norrköping |
| Research Project | High-Efficiency Thermal Energy Harvesting via Ionic Thermoelectric–Electronic Bridging (HEAT-BRIDGE) |
| Supervisor | Asst. Prof. Nara Kim |
| Reference Number | LiU-2026-03808 |
| Starting Date | February-March 2027, or by agreement |
| Duration | Normally four years’ full-time equivalent (extension up to five years possible) |
| Salary | Starting at SEK 35,300 per month (subject to annual review and progression) |
Research Area
- Ionic Thermoelectrics
- Electrochemistry
- Thermal Energy Harvesting
- Mixed Ionic–Electronic Materials
- Soft Electronics
- Polymer-based gel electrolytes
- Redox-active materials
- Ion transport and ion–polymer interactions
Location
Linköping University, Campus Norrköping, Sweden
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a relevant field, or equivalent qualifications (minimum 240 credits, with at least 60 credits in advanced courses relevant to the position).
- Strong academic background in a closely related discipline.
- Knowledge of electrochemistry and electrochemical materials or devices.
- Hands-on experience with experimental materials preparation and/or electrochemical characterization.
- Ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English.
Meritorious Research Experience:
- Electrolytes, hydrogels, ionogels, eutectogels, or other polymer electrolyte systems.
- Redox chemistry, batteries, redox-flow batteries, or other electrochemical energy-storage and conversion systems.
- Ion transport, ion–polymer interactions, or related transport phenomena in soft materials.
- Electrochemical characterization techniques (e.g., cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy).
- Ionic thermoelectrics, thermoelectric materials and devices, or thermal energy harvesting.
- Fabrication and characterization of flexible, soft, or deformable electrochemical devices.
Personal Qualities:
- Highly motivated and curious researcher with strong interest in electrochemistry, ionic transport, and energy conversion.
- Creativity, persistence, and strong problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively.
- Good communication skills and willingness to explore interdisciplinary research questions.
How to Apply
Apply for the position by clicking the “Apply” button on the original job advertisement page. Your application must include the following documents:
- Letter of application, including a statement of purpose.
- CV, detailing 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 referees.
- Copy of passport.
Applications and documents received after the deadline will not be considered.
Last Date for Apply
November 9th, 2026
Apply Link
https://liu.se/en/work-at-liu/vacancies/29854
