PhD Position – 3D ion beam tomography of next-generation batteries

Overview

PhD Position – 3D ion beam tomography of next-generation batteries. The PhD research is part of a consortium project on high-performance batteries with academic and industrial partners.

Future battery technologies are urgently needed to make electric mobility and stationary energy storage more affordable, safer and more efficient. The project focuses on Si-rich anodes and pre-lithiation, and uses ion beam analysis (IBA) to quantify Li with spatial resolution, enabling depth-resolved measurements and 3D reconstructions of element distributions in next-generation batteries.

Your Job

The PhD research is carried out as part of the consortium project on high-performance batteries. Your main responsibilities will include:

• Carrying out independent measurements using the world’s first 3D Li tomography facility on battery samples (the battery beamline at the 3 MeV Tandetron ion accelerator at FZJ)
• Optimising the measurement process to achieve the highest possible sensitivity, resolution and reproducibility
• Measuring various materials and battery components supplied by project partners
• Analyzing results using specially developed, AI-based software that enables 3D reconstructions of element distribution
• Complementary analysis using other advanced techniques such as SIMS, Raman, FIB-SEM, µ-CT, etc.
• Compiling results and assessing the influence of process parameters on Li distribution in various next-generation anode concepts

During the PhD, the candidate will gain knowledge of advanced analytical methods for future battery systems and demonstrate their industry-relevant application for process optimisation.

Your Profile

Enter the necessary professional and interdisciplinary qualifications of the applicant as bullet points here (max. 3-5)

• A successfully completed Master’s degree in Physics, Physical Chemistry or Materials Analysis
• Very good knowledge of solid-state analysis or related analytical methods
• Experience in the preparation, manufacture and production processes of inorganic materials
• Knowledge of electrochemistry and/or batteries would be an advantage
• Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary (at least B2 level according to the CEFR)
• A high degree of teamwork and flexibility, as well as a willingness to show great commitment

Our Benefits for You

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and offer you the chance to actively help shape the change. We support you in your work with:

• Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
• Networking & Exchange: You will be part of a consortium comprising industry, universities and other national research institutions, funded by the BMFTR
• Supervision & Support: Your academic supervisor will provide ongoing academic guidance. The PhD will be carried out at the University of Duisburg-Essen under the supervision of the supervising professor
• Work-life balance: Flexible working hours and location options, generally after consultation and in line with tasks and on-site appointments
• Annual Leave: 30 days of annual leave
• Knowledge & Development: Professional development through training and networking opportunities, including JuDocS and HITEC Graduate School
• Health & well-being: Comprehensive health management, on-site medical service and counselling
• Campus experience: Research campus with facilities and dining options on site
• Successful start: Structured training, welcome days and a welcome guide to help new members settle in
• Fair remuneration: Pay group 13 (75%) TVöD-Bund with annual bonus and benefits; information on the BMI website
• Fixed-term: The position is limited to 3 years
• Support for international employees: International Advisory Service assists international staff

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, further information is available at the benefits page

Equity & Diversity

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities is important to us.

The following links provide information on diversity and equal opportunities and on support options for women (online resources are provided in the original posting).

Place of Employment: Jülich

Start Date: To the next possible date

Salary: Pay group 13 (75%) TVöD-Bund

Application Deadline: The position will be advertised until it is successfully filled.

Index number: 2026D-0594

Share:

Career portal