24 PhD Positions in Battery Research and Energy Storage (DESTINY2 MSCA COFUND) French National Centre for Scientific Research in France

The DESTINY2 MSCA COFUND programme is offering 24 fully funded PhD positions in the field of battery research and energy storage. Hosted by a consortium of leading universities, research centres, and laboratories across France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Slovenia, this doctoral programme is coordinated by the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS). The initiative is part of the HORIZON EUROPE framework and is closely aligned with the Battery 2030+ roadmap, focusing on the development of next-generation battery technologies and addressing key challenges in energy storage.

DESTINY2 is a highly interdisciplinary and intersectoral programme, providing advanced training in areas such as materials science, electrochemistry, solid-state batteries, redox flow batteries, process modelling, and artificial intelligence. The research topics span from material synthesis for all-solid-state batteries to process modelling for battery manufacturing and the development of transition-metal complexes-based redox flow batteries. The programme aims to equip doctoral researchers with the skills and knowledge required to become future leaders in battery technologies, contributing to sectors like electro-mobility, large-scale energy storage, decarbonisation, and digitalisation.

Selected candidates will benefit from a vibrant academic-industry network, including the ALISTORE European Research Institute, and will participate in mobility between at least two institutions during their doctoral studies. The programme upholds the principles of Open Science and ensures the highest standards of research quality. Each PhD position offers a minimum gross salary of €3,300 per month (approximately €2,398 net), with variations depending on the host country, and includes full social security coverage. The contract duration is 36 months, starting in October 2026.

Applicants must hold a relevant master's degree in materials science, chemistry, physics, electrical engineering, or a related discipline. They should demonstrate strong interdisciplinary skills, including experience or interest in modelling, artificial intelligence, advanced electrochemical analysis, and materials synthesis. Proficiency in English and willingness to undertake mobility between institutions are required. Detailed eligibility criteria and project-specific requirements are provided in the Guide for Applicants available on the DESTINY2 website.

To apply, candidates should download and complete the 'Application FORM Global Document' from the DESTINY2 website and submit it as a single PDF on the CNRS job portal, uploading it both as a CV and cover letter. A short video introduction (maximum 3 minutes) is also required. The application deadline is October 1, 2026. For more information, including detailed research topics and application instructions, visit the DESTINY2 website.