PhD Candidate in Metallurgical Processes for Battery Recycling Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

This PhD position at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) focuses on developing innovative metallurgical processes for battery recycling, specifically targeting lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The project is a collaboration between NTNU's Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Chalmers University of Technology (CTH) in Sweden, under the Nordic Five Tech (N5T) alliance. The research aims to address the urgent need for sustainable and efficient recycling methods for spent LIBs, which are critical for the circular economy and sustainable business models in the battery value chain.

The candidate will join the Resources, Energy & Environment (IMA-REM) research group at NTNU and work with co-supervisors from CTH's Nuclear Chemistry/Industrial Materials Recycling group. The project involves both theoretical and practical work, including the development and laboratory-scale testing of process steps for the separation, pre-treatment, extraction, and recovery of lithium and other essential metals from spent batteries. Computational thermodynamics and commercial software will be used to support experimental design and to understand reaction mechanisms.

The research will also include material flow analyses (MFA) and life cycle analyses (LCA) from a value chain perspective. The candidate is expected to document the state-of-the-art in recycling processes, develop new process steps with lower energy and chemical consumption, and propose plans for industrialization. The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, with a 2% contribution to the State Pension Fund, and is for three years with the possibility of a one-year extension for teaching duties.

Applicants must have a relevant background in materials science, chemical engineering, or related fields, and meet NTNU's PhD admission requirements. The position requires good English skills and offers opportunities for international collaboration, mentorship, and professional development. The application process is fully electronic via Jobbnorge.no, and candidates must submit all required documents by the deadline.

The project is based in Trondheim, Norway, with some time spent at CTH in Gothenburg, Sweden.