Postdoctoral Position in Chemical Engineering and Membrane Processes for Battery Recycling

Lund University, a top-ranked institution in Sweden, is offering a postdoctoral position in Chemical Engineering focused on membrane processes for battery recycling. The position is based in the Membrane Group at the Department of Process and Life Science Engineering (PLE), which is renowned for its expertise in membrane research and development. The group operates MemLab, an advanced center for industrial membrane process R&D, providing excellent infrastructure for projects from lab to pilot scale. The research project aims to develop a sustainable, energy-efficient process for lithium recovery from spent batteries using advanced membrane technologies. The approach integrates biodegradable oxalic acid leaching with nanofiltration (NF), electrodialysis (ED), bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED), and membrane distillation (MD) to minimize chemical consumption, reduce energy demand, and lower environmental impact. The project is collaborative, involving international partners, the Swedish COMPEL platform, and key industrial stakeholders. The postdoctoral researcher will conduct research on lithium recovery with membrane technologies, report results to project partners and funding agencies, supervise degree projects and doctoral students, seek external research funding, and collaborate with industry and society. Teaching may be included up to 20% of working hours, and the position offers three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. Applicants must hold a PhD in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field, with strong experience in membrane processes, membrane production, and membrane spacer design. Proficiency in English, both oral and written, is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively, plan and conduct lab and pilot scale experiments, and have experience with Design of Experiment (DoE). Assessment will focus on research qualifications, potential, and how the applicant complements ongoing research in the department. This is a full-time, fixed-term position for three years, funded by an external project with industrial partners. Employment at Lund University includes benefits such as generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. The application deadline is 18 January 2026, and the expected start date is 1 March 2026 or as agreed. To apply, submit your application via the university's recruitment system, including a CV, personal letter, degree certificate, and any supporting documents such as transcripts, references, or recommendation letters. For more information, contact Professor Frank Lipnizki at [email protected].