PhD scholarship in dislocation functionalized ion conductors for solid state battery electrolyt

Are you running out of materials to make the next generation solid battery? Do you need exotic properties with not so exotic materials? Dislocations when introduced into ceramics can result in properties which are not native to themselves.
The Department of Energy Conversion and Storage, Technical University of Denmark (DTU), invites applications for a PhD scholarship in the development of electrolyte for all solid-state batteries for safer and efficient electrochemical energy storage.

The aim of the PhD work is to fabricate a solid electrolyte for solid-state Li and Na metal battery with an ionic conductivity exceeding the intrinsic value of the corresponding oxide electrolyte material. This would be achieved by high temperature forging of oxide ceramics to induce arrays of dislocations.

The project is an initiative of DTU for strategic partnership in collaboration with DTU nano and DTU physics.

Responsibilities and qualifications
As our new PhD student you will be investigating the effect of dislocation density on the ion conductivity of the electrolyte. In addition, the dendrite growth resistance with respect to dislocation density with in-situ x-ray tomography to visualize the dendrite growth and in-situ transmission electron microscopy to substantiate the interaction of ion and dislocation during ion transport under electric field.

As part of the PhD education, you will follow courses and assist in teaching activities, and:

• You are expected to spend at least 3 months at a foreign research institution.
• You are expected to disseminate your work in international peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences.

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.
Ideally, your master's degree is in chemistry, physics, or material science engineering and strong experimental experience in electrochemical energy storage and have excellent knowledge of solid-state chemistry. Moreover, experience in all-solid-state battery system, field assisted sintering technology and impedance spectroscopy will be beneficial.

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education.

Assessment
Your application will be assessed by Dr. Apurv Dash, Prof. Poul Ægidius Norby and Prof. Wolff-Ragnar Kiebach.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

The starting date will be December 1st, 2024 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is full-time.

Further information
If you have further questions, please contact Assistant Professor Apurv Dash ( ), DTU Energy. You can read more about "DTU energy" at

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 10 September 2024 (23:59 Danish time).
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter).
• Curriculum vitae.
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale.
• Relevant research experience in the form of reports or short description or list of publications.
• A list of references (minimum 3) you have worked in direct collaboration.

You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

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