PhD Position Interfacial Processes in Lithium-Ion Batteries Using Advanced Characterization

Are you excited about understanding batteries at the nanoscale and improving their performance and sustainability?

We are looking for a motivated PhD student as part of the DigiCellFab project, a collaborative initiative bringing together universities, knowledge institutes, and industrial partners.

Job description

The role of the PhD candidate will be to focus on developing a fundamental understanding of Solid Electrolyte Interphase (SEI) and Cathode Electrolyte Interphase (CEI) formation in lithium-ion batteries, with the aim of optimizing formation protocols to reduce production time and cost while improving performance and safety. Particular attention will be given to the role of Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) based protective coatings in controlling interphase formation and stabilizing electrode-electrolyte interfaces. The research will systematically investigate the interplay between formation conditions (e.g. current density, temperature, pressure), electrolyte composition, and coated electrode surfaces, with a focus on the use of PFAS-free electrolyte systems. A key part of the work will involve combining electrochemical testing with advanced characterization techniques, including FIB-SEM for site-specific cross-sectioning and interphase analysis, supported by complementary microscopy and spectroscopic methods. The project aims to establish direct structure-function relationships linking formation protocols, coating properties, and interphase characteristics to battery performance.

Job requirements

We are looking for a candidate with a strong scientific background and interest in battery materials and interfaces:

• A Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field
• Solid understanding of electrochemistry and/or materials characterization
• Interest in interfacial phenomena in batteries, particularly SEI/CEI formation
• Experience with electrochemical techniques (e.g. cycling, impedance) and/or advanced characterization methods (e.g. FIB-SEM, electron microscopy, spectroscopy) is advantageous
• Hands-on, experimental mindset with the ability to design and execute systematic studies

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft University of Technology is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society.

Faculty Applied Sciences

The Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem focused on key enabling technologies such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion. Its scientists conduct fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract includes an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming performance requirements are met.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.