PhD thesis: Operando XPS analysis of engineered SEI for Solid-State Batteries

September 13, 2024

CIC energiGUNE

Vitoria-Gasteiz

JOB DESCRIPTION:
CIC energi GUNE is recruiting a highly motivated Ph D candidate to join our cutting-edge research team. The candidate will focus on understanding the reactivity of Li metal with solid electrolytes (SEs) and engineering the SE/Li interfaces for their integration in the next generation of solid-state batteries. The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formed between metallic Li and the SEs will be studied by Operando XPS (Op XPS), while plating Li in-situ in the vacuum analysis chamber.
Besides, artificial SEI layers will be fabricated by magnetron sputtering and their effectiveness investigated by Op XPS and electrochemical methods. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to pioneering research aimed at improving battery performance and stability through advanced interface engineering, while developing beyond-state-of-the-art techniques to access interfacial phenomena difficult to probe by conventional methods.
Main job functions:

Optimize and develop new approaches of Operando XPS analysis to study the SEI formation and evolution on solid-state battery interfaces
Develop and optimize new artificial SEI layer concepts by magnetron sputtering
Conduct electrochemical tests on cells with bare and engineered interfaces
Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to integrate findings into battery design and performance improvement
Publish research results in high-impact journals and present at international conferences

Area: Electrochemical energy storage (EES)
Group: Ceramic electrolytes and Surface Analysis Unit platform

WHAT WE OFFER:

We are offering a 3-year predoctoral contract and advantageous professional development opportunities with the possibility of 1 year extension based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.
Flexible working hours promoting work-life balance and self organization.
On-site work model with the option to telework.
Full access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities and characterization platforms.
The incorporation to a top research center in Europe that makes high quality research and impactful contributions to the energy and sustainability fields.
Professional and personal development: opportunity to attend seminars, international conferences, training courses, etc.
Integrated, enthusiastic, international and multidisciplinary environment.
A welcome program that offers help with finding accommodation and addresses other aspects to help you integrate into the local environment (such as free language courses, assistance with the administrative procedures, help with schools for children…).

For more information: https://cicenergigune.com/en/work-with-us

TO APPLY:
All applicants are invited to submit their application a detailed curriculum vitae along with a motivation letter at this website:
The selection process ends once the candidate is selected.
CIC energi GUNE is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INSTITUTION:

WHO ARE WE? https://cicenergigune.com/en/who-are-we
WHERE ARE WE? https://cicenergigune.com/en/welcome
OUR FACILITIES: https://cicenergigune.com/en/platforms-facilities
EES RESEARCH GROUPS: https://cicenergigune.com/en/electrochemical-storage-research-groups

For more details on CIC energi GUNE's research activities please visit our website at http://www.cicenergigune.com.

Master's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field
Analytical and problem-solving skills
Good communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
Good written and oral skills in English
Background in surface analysis techniques, experience on battery materials and familiarity with physical vapor deposition techniques and UHV instruments will be highly valued