Postdoctoral Fellow in Ion-Exchange Membranes and Electrodialysis Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Chemical Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim is offering a Postdoctoral Fellow in Ion-Exchange Membranes and Electrodialysis. The position is part of BrinE-loop, a Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder project focused on an integrated electrochemical route for the valorization of desalination brines and the recycling of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery materials.

The successful candidate will contribute to NTNU’s work package on electrified mono/di-valent stream separation. The core research tasks include the design, fabrication, functionalization, characterization, and performance evaluation of monovalent-selective ion-exchange membranes, followed by their integration into electrodialysis modules and the wider BrinE-loop process. NTNU’s membrane laboratories provide facilities for membrane fabrication, characterization, and advanced electrodialysis testing.

This is a full-time temporary postdoctoral appointment, normally for 3 years (with an option for a 4-year employment period mentioned in the advert). The role is intended to build a strong research profile and prepare the appointee for a future academic career. The position offers an international research environment, career guidance, mentorship, and access to Norwegian public-sector benefits. The advertised salary is normally from NOK 633,400 per year before tax, subject to qualifications and seniority.

Applicants must hold, or be in the final phase of, a PhD in membrane science and technology, chemical engineering, materials science, polymer science, chemistry, electrochemistry, or a closely related discipline. Strong experimental experience in membrane-based separation is required, especially membrane fabrication and physicochemical characterization. Experience with ion-exchange membranes, selective transport in multi-ion systems, electrodialysis, membrane functionalization, and interdisciplinary collaboration will be an advantage. Very good written and oral English is required.

The application deadline is 20 September 2026. Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no and include academic transcripts and diplomas, a copy or draft of the PhD thesis, a research plan (2–3 pages), a publication list, and three referees. If applicable, foreign-education documentation and HK-dir evaluation should also be attached. For questions about the position, contact Professor Liyuan Deng at [email protected].

The position is based in Trondheim, Norway, at NTNU’s Department of Chemical Engineering, within a broad and well-equipped research environment dedicated to chemistry, membrane science, and sustainable process development.