Doctoral Student in Structural Battery Electrolytes for Cold-Climate Transport Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden, invites applications for a fully funded doctoral student position focused on developing structural battery electrolytes for cold-climate transport. This research aims to advance next-generation multifunctional carbon-fibre composites that can both store energy and serve as load-bearing materials in vehicles, particularly for Nordic environments where sub-zero temperatures are common.

The project is based in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, within the division of Computational Mechanics and Materials Engineering. The division is known for its multidisciplinary approach, integrating computational mechanics and advanced materials technology to improve the performance of engineering materials and structures. The research will combine expertise in polymer chemistry, electrochemistry, microscopy, and composite mechanics to design and evaluate new electrolyte systems for structural battery composites.

As a doctoral student, you will conduct experimental research on the synthesis of polymer electrolytes, electrochemical characterisation of battery systems, microscopy and microstructure analysis, mechanical testing of multifunctional composites, and the integration and validation of electrolytes in structural battery composites. You will also take advanced courses within the Graduate School of Materials Science and may participate in teaching or other departmental duties (up to 20% of your time).

Eligibility: Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. Strong English communication skills are required. Experience in polymer materials, electrochemistry, batteries, composite materials, or materials characterisation is essential. Additional experience in polymer synthesis, electrochemical testing, microscopy, or composite manufacturing is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, curiosity for interdisciplinary research, and the ability to work in an international environment. Physical presence in Sweden is required for the duration of the studies, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date.

Funding: The position is fully funded from the start, with a starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (from May 25, 2025). The appointment is for four years, extendable to five years with teaching duties. As an employee of Chalmers, you will receive full employee benefits, including access to Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare.

Application: Applications must be submitted in English as PDF files via the official application portal. Required documents include a CV, personal letter, motivation, and transcripts. Incomplete applications and those sent by email will not be considered. The deadline for applications is April 12, 2026. For questions, contact Assistant Professor Johanna Xu at [email protected].

Chalmers University of Technology is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion, and offers a dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. Swedish language courses are available for non-native speakers. For more information about doctoral studies at Chalmers, visit the university website.