Summary
KTH Royal Institute of Technology is seeking a Postdoctoral researcher for a 2-year project focused on the micromechanical modelling and mechanical characterisation of solid-state battery (SSB) cells. This position is a part of the Swedish governmental battery initiative, COMPEL, which supports excellence in battery research for the transport sector. The successful candidate will join the Department of Engineering Mechanics to develop a modelling framework that links the mechanical state of a cell to its electrochemical performance.
Postdoc in Solid-State Batteries, KTH Royal Institute, Sweden
Job Details
| Item | Details |
| Designation | Postdoctoral Fellow |
| Research Area | Solid-state batteries (micromechanical modelling of cells) |
| Location | Stockholm, Sweden |
| Employment Type | Temporary position (Full-time, 100%) |
| Duration | Maximum of 2 years |
| Start Date | 2026-10-01 (or according to agreement) |
| Reference Number | PA-2026-2607 |
| Last Date to Apply | August 15, 2026 (midnight CET/CEST) |
Job Description
Unlike traditional liquid electrolytes, solid-state batteries must build and maintain solid-solid contacts under load while handling the swelling and shrinkage caused by ion insertion and extraction.
The postdoc will:
- Develop a micromechanical modelling framework resolving the cell at the scale of particles and interfaces.
- Link the mechanical state of the battery to its electrochemical performance, capturing interface debonding, fracture, and particle fragmentation.
- Validate the framework against experimental data from the COMPEL collaboration to deliver a design and operating map (including a safe low-pressure operating window).
- Contribute to the mechanical and structural characterisation of materials and cells developed across other joint projects.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- A doctoral degree (or equivalent foreign degree) in Solid Mechanics, Engineering Mechanics, Computational Mechanics, Materials Science, Applied Physics, or a related subject, with some experience in batteries/battery materials. (Must be met by the time the employment decision is made).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Strong computational and numerical modelling skills, including finite element or multiphysics simulations and scientific programming.
- Awareness of diversity, equal treatment, and gender equality issues.
Preferred Qualifications:
- A PhD obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline.
- Hands-on experience with coupled electro-chemo-mechanical or phase-field fracture modelling, contact/micromechanics of particulate/composite materials, mechanical testing, and X-ray tomography.
- Programming skills in Python, C++, or Fortran.
- An innovative mindset, strong collaborative skills, and the ability to work independently within a team environment.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically by logging into the KTH recruitment system via the KTH Application Portal.
Your application must be complete and include the following documents:
- CV outlining your relevant professional experience and knowledge.
- Copies of diplomas and grades from university studies (with English or Swedish translations if the originals are not in a West-European language).
- A brief motivation statement (maximum 1 page) explaining why you want to conduct research, your academic interests, and how they align with your goals.
- Contact information for references or letters of recommendation.
Contact Information
For specific questions regarding the position, you can reach out to the following representatives:
- Artem Kulachenko: artem@kth.se
- Dan Zenkert: danz@kth.se
- Malin Åkermo: akermo@kth.se
