The University of Twente's SEED lab is offering a fully funded postdoctoral position as part of the SLDBatt project, focusing on the design and scale-up of sodium-salt (Na-salt) batteries. The research aims to develop low-cost, safe, and high energy density batteries (up to 100 Wh/kg cell-level) for long-duration energy storage, using sodium chloride and recycled aluminum with a NaAlCl4 electrolyte. The successful candidate will combine multiphysics modelling for cell design with electrochemical testing, such as charge-discharge cycling and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, to investigate and optimize battery performance.

This role involves close collaboration with Exergy Storage and another postdoctoral researcher in the PCS research group. The research will address limiting physico-chemical phenomena in the battery and propose design and operational strategies to overcome them. The ultimate goal is to enable cell capacities up to 4 kWh and discharge durations of up to 100 hours, contributing to innovations in sustainable energy storage.

Applicants should have a PhD in chemical engineering, chemistry, applied physics, or a related field, with a strong background in physics-based battery modelling. Experience in coding (C++/Python/Julia) and/or using COMSOL Multiphysics is required, as is experience or willingness to learn hands-on cell testing and analytical techniques (SEM-EDX, XRD, IR, Raman). The position requires self-motivation, teamwork, mentoring skills, and fluency in English. The SEED lab is a dynamic group of around 10 researchers working on electrochemical engineering for the low-carbon energy transition, bridging nano-scale physics to industrial-scale systems.

The appointment is for 36 months, with a gross monthly salary of €4,241–€5,538, plus excellent benefits including holiday and end-of-year bonuses, pension, generous leave, free sports facilities, and family-friendly policies. The University of Twente is a leading Dutch technical university with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and societal impact.

To apply, submit a cover letter, detailed CV with at least two references, and a summary of your PhD research via the University of Twente careers portal. The application deadline is January 15, 2026. For substantive questions, contact Dr. Aayan Banerjee at [email protected]. Do not send applications by email or LinkedIn.

Keywords: batteries, multiphysics modelling, electrochemical testing, Na-salt battery, electrochemical engineering, energy storage, sustainability, chemical engineering, applied physics.