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BatteryNL is a collaborative research program, part of the Dutch research agenda (Nationale Wetenschapsagenda NWA; project number NWA.1389.20.089) encompassing six Dutch universities, knowledge centres and industry. Together we are working towards a common goal, which is to deliver fundamental understanding of the degradation phenomena occurring at the electrode/electrolyte interfaces in batteries. This currently impedes the realization of high-performance batteries with high energy density, fast charging rate and long cycle life. Understanding of interface and structural degradation mechanisms is essential to enable the design and realization of material engineering strategies meant to mitigate those degradation phenomena at interfaces.
To this end, the first PhD (PhD1) would primarily work on the advanced characterization of interfaces in Li-ion batteries both with liquid and solid electrolytes using solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Solid-state NMR is a versatile tool, to elucidate both the interfacial structure as well as interfacial as well as bulk ion dynamics. The PhD will additionally characterize the materials using electrochemical and other analytical techniques including X-ray/neutron diffraction. There is also the opportunity to be involved in the materials development part of these projects, especially concerning solid-state batteries and their interfaces. Previous experience working with (solid-state) NMR spectroscopy and Li-ion batteries is desirable. There is also extensive expertise and experience within the hosting group providing ample opportunity for the applicant to build expertise efficiently.
The second PhD (PhD2) will primarily work on the advanced characterization of working batteries with lab source and synchrotron based X-ray diffraction as well as neutron diffraction. The structural evolution of the electrode material as well as the interfacial stability of both liquid-electrolyte and solid-electrolyte based working batteries will be studied. Synchrotron based micro/nano-beam diffraction very powerful non-standard technique allowing us to monitor the transformation of individual grains/crystallites in a working battery. In addition, there is the opportunity to be involved in the materials development part of these projects. Due to the extensive data analysis necessitated by this project, ability to program with python or Matlab is a prerequisite. Previous experience working with X-ray or neutron diffraction is desirable. There is also extensive expertise and experience within the hosting group providing ample opportunity for the applicant to build expertise efficiently.
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic researchers with a masters degree in physics, chemistry or materials science. Prior experience with solid-state NMR (PhD1) and diffraction (PhD2) and Li-ion batteries is desirable. Ablility to program in Python or Matlab is a prerequisite for PhD2. The candidates should also be interested in multi-technique based characterization of materials and in communicating the results obtained with the project partners as needed. The positions are based at the Storage of Electrochemical Energy group of the Delft University of Technology, stationed at the TU Delft Reactor Institute. The in-house techniques available here include a diversity of neutron scattering techniques, operando neutron depth profiling, operando X-ray diffraction and (operando) nuclear magnetic resonance, all playing an important role in both projects. Good written and spoken communication skills in English are required.
Fixed-term contract: 4 jaar.
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2443 per month in the first year to € 3122 in the fourth year. 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.
The TU Delft offers a customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft 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. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.
With more than 1,000 employees, including 135 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,400 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we train students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers and science communicators.
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