PhD Novel concepts for electrolyte characterization from automotive cells

Who We Are

Our mission has started. We are starting our own battery cell production in Battery Valley in Salzgitter and ramping up our headquarters for global cell production. The CTO organization takes care of the battery cell development. Our responsibility includes research, predevelopment of materials and components, series development, prototyping, testing and analysis of battery cells.

Your Role And Key Responsibilities

• Development and establishment of innovative analytical methods for the qualitative and quantitative characterization of electrolytes in automotive battery cells
• Application and further development of chromatography and mass spectrometric methods for the analysis of complex electrolyte matrices
• Planning, execution and evaluation of demanding laboratory tests on highly developed analytical instruments in compliance with relevant safety standards
• Processing, interpretation and data-based evaluation of complex analytical data sets in an interdisciplinary context
• Independent organization and implementation of the doctoral project including method optimization and documentation of the results
• Presentation and publication of research results in international and interdisciplinary scientific environments

The final doctoral thesis topic is determined together with the professor (m/f/d). The prerequisite for cooperation is a confirmation of supervision and the confirmed topic by the professor (m/f/d) of a university or research institution authorized to award doctorates.

What You Bring To The Team

• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Food Chemistry, or a comparable qualification
• Previous experience and strong focus on instrumental analysis, particularly chromatography, mass spectrometry, and hands‑on laboratory work
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis of complex sample matrices
• Experience in the interpretation and evaluation of mass spectra
• Experience working with highly sophisticated analytical instruments
• Interdisciplinary basic knowledge in data processing, databases, and engineering sciences
• High level of initiative, independence, and willingness to learn
• Structured work style and strong analytical thinking
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills in interdisciplinary and international environments
• Experience in the scientific presentation of complex topics
• Good English skills

What Makes You Stand Out

• Previous experience in the analysis of battery components
• Confidence and professionalism in a laboratory environment, including safe handling of hazardous substances
• Strong sense of initiative and ability to work independently
• Good time and project management skills
• Cooperative mindset and ability to collaborate with colleagues as an equal team member

What To Look Forward To

• Three‑year doctoral program in which the doctoral students work on internal tasks of PowerCo in addition to their doctorate
• 35‑hour week, flexible working hours
• 30 days paid vacation + 24.12. & 31.12. off
• Interdisciplinary qualification opportunities
• Regular feedback meetings and close technical supervision in the department
• Opportunity for scientific exchange with other doctoral students of the Volkswagen Group