Doctoral Student in Computational Modelling of Zinc-Metal Batteries

Job Description

Organization: Chalmers University of Technology – Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a Doctoral Student position in computational modelling of zinc-metal batteries. The project is hosted in the Stenlid Lab and focuses on understanding and controlling interfacial reactions in rechargeable aqueous zinc-metal batteries using advanced computational chemistry and materials modelling techniques.

The research aims to address key challenges in sustainable energy storage by investigating parasitic interfacial reactions such as dendrite formation, corrosion, and by-product generation at the zinc–electrolyte interface. The project integrates theoretical chemistry, electrochemistry, and surface science, and is conducted in close collaboration with experimental researchers.

Project Overview

The research will explore atomic-scale mechanisms governing interfacial chemistry in aqueous zinc-metal batteries. The goal is to develop durable, safe, and recyclable energy storage systems based on abundant materials. The project is funded by the Swedish Energy Agency’s research program “Sustainable Battery Value Chain” and involves multidisciplinary collaborations with national and international research groups.

Research Responsibilities

• Conduct computational modelling of interfacial reactions in zinc-metal batteries.
• Apply atomistic modelling, electronic structure calculations, and machine-learning methods.
• Collaborate with experimental groups performing electrochemical testing and materials characterization.
• Participate in multidisciplinary research collaborations and possible international research visits.
• Teach or assist with departmental duties for approximately 10% of working hours.
• Develop and communicate scientific results through publications and presentations.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree (120 credits) or equivalent in chemistry, chemical engineering, physics, materials science, or a related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with quantum chemistry or computational chemistry methods.
• Knowledge of electrochemistry, batteries, or energy storage systems.
• Programming skills in Python or other scientific programming languages.
• Research experience in academic or industrial environments.

Employment Conditions

• Fully funded doctoral position for 4 years, extendable up to 5 years with teaching duties.
• Starting salary: 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 2025).
• Physical presence at Chalmers is required during the doctoral studies.

Research Environment

The Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Chalmers conducts world-class research in chemistry, materials science, energy technologies, and computational modelling. The doctoral student will work in an interdisciplinary environment with access to advanced computational methods and collaborations with experimental groups.