Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student), Sustainable Aqueous Processing of Ni-rich Cathodes for Lithium-ion Batteries University of Eastern Finland

The University of Eastern Finland is inviting applications for a Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student) in Sustainable Aqueous Processing of Ni-rich Cathodes for Lithium-ion Batteries at the Department of Technical Physics, Kuopio campus.

This PhD project focuses on the development and fundamental understanding of advanced aqueous-based binders and their integration into aqueous processing routes for Ni-rich cathode materials. The research aims to improve both the performance and sustainability of lithium-ion battery manufacturing, with attention to electrode integrity, slurry stability, interfacial chemistry, electrochemical performance, and binder-enabled material recovery.

The successful candidate will carry out research combining materials chemistry, formulation, interfacial analysis, electrochemical characterization, and advanced materials characterization. Typical tasks include binder design, cathode/electrode fabrication, materials characterization, electrochemical measurements, data analysis, conference presentations, and publication of high-quality research results.

The position is a fixed-term appointment for three years starting on 1 September 2026, or as agreed. It is a full-time doctoral researcher role intended for dissertation work and postgraduate studies. The starting salary is approximately EUR 2,710–2,845 per month, in line with the Finnish university salary system.

Applicants should be eligible for postgraduate studies and hold a Master’s degree in chemistry, physics, materials science and engineering, electrochemistry, or a related field. Strong written and spoken English is required, along with the ability to work both independently and in a research team. Hands-on experience in materials characterization, electrochemistry, polymer materials, electrode processing, or battery-related experimental work is expected. Experience with rechargeable batteries, Ni-rich cathodes, binder materials, cathode synthesis/modification, structural or interfacial characterization, sustainability-oriented materials design, and advanced techniques such as electron microscopy, FTIR, XPS, and X-ray methods will be considered an advantage.

Applications must be submitted electronically by 12 August 2026 at 23:59 Finnish time. Required attachments include a CV, publication list, degree certificates, transcript of records, proof of language proficiency if applicable, a one-page motivation letter, and any other documents supporting the applicant’s merits. If degree certificates are not in English, Finnish, or Swedish, official translations are required.

For questions about the position, contact Associate Professor Haidong Liu at [email protected]. For application procedure questions, contact HR Specialist Iiris Korhonen at [email protected] or HR Specialist Noora Hämäläinen at [email protected].