Postdoctoral position in Operando Investigation of Interfacial Degradation in Sulfide-Based Solid-State Lithium–Sulfur Batteries

Role Overview
Lund University, within the COMPEL platform at the Centre for Analysis and Synthesis, Department of Chemistry, is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a project focused on operando investigation of interfacial degradation in sulfide-based solid-state lithium–sulfur batteries. The position aims to establish a fundamental understanding of interfacial degradation mechanisms through advanced operando and post-mortem characterization, exploiting unique capabilities at MAX IV and complementary spectroscopy techniques. The goal is to identify key degradation pathways and develop design principles for next-generation sulfur-based energy storage systems.

Responsibilities
The main duties involve conducting research, with teaching included up to no more than 20% of working hours. Specific work duties include:
- Fabrication and optimization of sulfide-based all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries.
- Electrochemical characterization, including galvanostatic cycling, rate capability testing, EIS, DRT, and GITT measurements.
- Development and implementation of operando characterization methodologies.
- Preparation of synchrotron beamtime proposals and execution of operando studies.
- Post-mortem analysis using SEM, FIB-SEM, XPS, Raman spectroscopy, and other relevant techniques.
- Analysis of experimental data, preparation of reports, and publication of findings.
- Actively seeking external research funding.
- Supervision of graduate or postgraduate students.
- Administration related to the above duties.

Requirements and Qualifications
Appointment requires a PhD or an international degree deemed equivalent, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving qualification must be received before the employment decision. Priority is given to candidates who graduated no more than three years ago before the application deadline.

Additional requirements:
- Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
- Doctoral degree within engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a related subject.
- Hands-on experience in electrochemistry and Li-S batteries.
- Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
- Good problem-solving and analytical abilities.

Assessment Criteria:
- Ability to develop and conduct high-quality research.
- Teaching skills.
- Experience with synchrotron-based characterization techniques and conducting experiments at large-scale research infrastructures.
- Experience with operando or in situ characterization of battery systems.
- How the applicant’s experience complements and strengthens ongoing research within the department.

What They Offer
- A full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years.
- Opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning.
- Access to close collaboration with LU facilities such as the 4D Imaging Lab, NanoLund, and MAX IV.
- Benefits as a public authority employee, including generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme.