PhD Stipend in Sustainable Synthesis and Optimization of Calcium-Ion Battery Materials at AAU Energy Aalborg University in Denmark

Aalborg University’s AAU Energy department invites applications for a fully funded PhD stipend focused on the sustainable synthesis and optimization of calcium-ion battery materials. The position is part of the general study program at the Faculty of Engineering and Science and is open for appointment from August 1st, 2026, or soon thereafter, with a three-year duration.

The successful candidate will join the "Batteries" research group and be affiliated with the section for “Power Electronics Systems Integration and Materials.” The project centers on developing and optimizing calcium-ion cathode and anode materials, including the processing strategies required for stable and reproducible cycling. Key tasks include electrode preparation, coin-cell assembly, and systematic electrochemical characterization—such as cycling stability, rate capability, coulombic efficiency, and impedance analysis—to identify performance limitations and degradation pathways.

Advanced structural, compositional, and surface-sensitive characterization methods will be used to correlate material structure and microstructure to electrochemical behavior, with special attention to interphase formation and evolution governing charge transfer, reversibility, and lifetime. The project also involves investigating electrode–electrolyte interface phenomena, benchmarking against the state of the art, and critical analysis of results to guide further development of materials and cell concepts. The PhD student will contribute to high-quality publications, conference presentations, teaching, supervision of student projects, and broader dissemination activities within the department.

AAU Energy is a research department dedicated to clean and sustainable energy systems, covering electrical, thermal, and mechatronic energy technologies. The department is based at the Aalborg campus and offers access to advanced laboratory and workshop facilities, an international and interdisciplinary research environment, and support services for relocation and practical matters. English is widely used as the working language, facilitating integration for international colleagues.

Applicants must hold an M.Sc. degree in materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or electrochemistry. Experience with synthesis and processing of inorganic or carbon-based electrode materials, electrode formulation and coating, coin-cell assembly, and electrochemical testing (e.g., galvanostatic cycling, rate capability, coulombic efficiency, impedance spectroscopy) is advantageous. Familiarity with materials characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, SEM/EDS, XPS, Raman/FTIR) and systematic data analysis is beneficial. Strong communication skills in English are required; Danish language skills are desirable but not mandatory.

PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree and are normally for a period of 3 years. Enrollment as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science is a prerequisite. The program requires completion of PhD courses (30 ECTS), teaching or knowledge dissemination experience, and an external research stay (preferably 3-6 months) at a foreign research institution.

The stipend includes salary and pension benefits, with a base salary starting at 31,242.75 DKK before taxes and an additional 18.07% for pension contributions. The final salary can be negotiated based on qualifications and experience. Employment terms follow the AC collective agreement. The university offers career development opportunities, including personalized DISC profile assessments, career-focused courses, and networking events.

To apply, submit your application via Aalborg University's recruitment system. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV, diplomas, a 4-5 page project description, and other relevant documents. Selected candidates will be invited for interview in June 2026. The application deadline is July 31, 2026.

For professional questions, contact Associate Professor Daniel-Ioan Stroe ([email protected]) or Mikkel Lønsman Hukiær ([email protected]).