29 Sep2020
PhD position – Electrochemical Energy Storage
CIC energiGUNE is seeking for a motivated student to complete a PhD in Materials Science in the field of energy storage.
Job function:
- The student will join an experienced, international and multidisciplinary team, including both theoretical and experimental experts.
- His/her research project will be focused on the “Accelerated discovery of new electrode materials for Li- and Na-ion batteries, using Artificial Intelligence-aided high-throughput synthesis methods”, which will be part of a wider, public-funded, innovative project aligned with the H2020 European research strategy in the field of Electrochemical Energy Storage.
- For this 3.5-year project, he/she will carry out the following tasks:
- Synthesis of inorganic materials. The student will be able to explore several approaches, such as solid-state, hydrothermal and/or sol-gel synthesis routes, under controlled atmospheres (inert or reductive conditions, work in glove-box, etc.) and using high-throughput synthesis modules developed at CICe. He/she will also take part in the implementation of machine learning algorithms to predict the outcome of new experiments and automatize their planning.
- Physical-chemical and structural characterization. The samples will be characterized using a large panel of techniques, including X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, chemical analyses, thermogravimetric analyses, etc.
- Electrochemical characterization. The student will learn how to prepare electrode materials (formulation, coating) and assemble electrochemical cells (Swagelok-type and/or coin cells). He/she will perform electrochemical tests, including galvanostatic cyclings, cyclic voltamperometry, etc.
- Study of the reaction mechanisms of the most promising candidates. Using advanced ex-situ and in-situ experiments, as well as contrasting experimental results with density functional theory (DFT) predictions.
- Redaction of scientific publications in high-impact journals and participation to national and international conferences.
Qualification requirements:
- The candidate will preferably hold or be involved in a Master degree (or equivalent) with a major in Materials Sciences, Inorganic Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Materials Engineering or any other scientific discipline in a related field.
- Basic knowledge in computation and programming (e.g. Fortran, Python, C++) will be valuable.
- Demonstrated self-motivation and ability to work independently.
- A team player who can collaborate with other scientists and other groups.
- Good verbal and written communication skills in English. Spanish is not compulsory.
We offer the candidate to prepare his/her PhD thesis funded by a national grant (Ayudas para contratos predoctorales para la formación de doctores del Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovacion y Universidades) at CIC energiGUNE starting from mid-2021 in an experienced and multidisciplinary team. Optionally, if she/he is currently involved in an Master degree, the student could prepare his/her Master thesis at CIC energiGUNE during the first half of 2021.
We offer a collaborative and international environment with a wide range of up-to- date facilities that will be accessible to the student, as well as a culture through which he/she will be able to share ideas, develop expertise and prepare for a scientific career in both academic and industrial sectors.
All applicants are invited to submit a cover letter, a detailed curriculum vitae and their academic records at www.cicenergigune.com and send an email to Dr. Marine Reynaud (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) and Dr. Javier Carrasco (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). The selection process ends once a candidate is selected.
CIC energiGUNE is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.
