The Fuel Cells and Solid State Chemistry Division at Risø DTU is seeking a PhD student to develop new types of electrodes and electrolytes for use in advanced lithium batteries.

Lithium batteries are electrochemical cells consisting of a thin Li+ conducting electrolyte and two electrodes on either side of the electrolyte. The gravimetric energy density of commercially available lithium batteries is 150-250 Wh/kg. For comparison, the gravimetric energy density of e.g. gasoline is more than 11 kWh/kg. This makes it crucial to increase the gravimetric energy density of lithium batteries to make electrical vehicles commercially interesting for the transport sector.

Risø DTU has been involved in lithium battery research for several decades and is currently increasing the activities within the field. The research is done in collaboration with other divisions at Risø DTU as well as other research institutes.

Project description
The project will focus on electrode and electrolyte synthesis and electrochemical evaluation of different electrodes and possibly full cells developed at Risø DTU. Emphasis will be on initial cell performance, durability and energy density. The aim is to gain a fundamental understanding of the electrochemical processes and degradation mechanisms in order to improve performance, durability and energy density of the synthesized cells. Advanced electrochemical and microscopic techniques as well as X-ray diffraction can be used in the characterization of the cells.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in engineering, chemistry,  materials science, physics, or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to the master's degree

• Ability to work independently, to plan and carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a large, dynamical group

• Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken

We offer
We offer an exciting and challenging job in an international environment with good possibilities for professional and personal growth. Risø DTU is a family friendly organization with flexible working hours. 

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.

Salary and appointment terms
The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The period of employment is 3 years.

Application
We must have your online application by XX. Please open the link "apply for this job online", fill in the application form and attach the following documents:

a) A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
b) Curriculum vitae
c) Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
d) Conversion of grade averages to Danish grades (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet for the conversion here.

Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree, but cannot begin before having received it.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, handicap, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

Further information
Please contact Peter Holtappels, +45 4677 5620 or Søren Højgaard Jensen, +45 4677 5849 for further information.

Additional information about Risø DTU and the Fuel Cells and Solid State Chemistry Division can be found on risoe.dtu.dk.