Claudio Gerbaldi

EcoBatt is a jointly supervised PhD between Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA, France) and Politecnico di Torino (PoliTO, Italy), focused on electrochemical energy storage , solid-state batteries , and stimuli-responsive polymer electrolytes . The project sits at the interface of organic/polymer chemistry, functional soft matter, electrochemistry, and battery materials science, with work split between the LEPMI laboratory at UGA and the GAME Lab at PoliTO. The research aims to develop safer, higher-performance, eco-designed all-solid-state batteries by combining newly designed stimulus-responsive polymer electrolytes with solid-state battery devices. The approach includes synthesis and characterization of functional polymers, structure-property studies, and advanced battery testing, including materials-level and device-level proof-of-concept demonstrations. The project emphasizes circular and sustainable battery concepts, bioinspired self-healing materials, and compatibility with future manufacturing and recycling pathways. The position is supported by a secured fellowship from the Université Franco-Italienne (UFI) Vinci Programme 2026-Chapter III. The stipend is €2,300 gross per month from 2027 onward, with a competitive health/medicare package, for a 3-year joint PhD starting in January 2027. The student will spend 18 months in Grenoble and 18 months in Torino, earning a joint doctoral degree from UGA and PoliTO. Applicants should have, or be close to obtaining, a Master’s degree or equivalent in Organic/Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, functional soft matter, or Electrochemistry. Prior practical experience in synthesis, SAXS/WAXD, conductivity-property correlations, or battery electrode characterization is highly valued. Strong independence, teamwork across chemistry and physics, and excellent written and spoken communication skills in French or Italian and English are important selection criteria. Applications are submitted by email to Dr. Patrice Rannou. Candidates should provide a single application file including a CV, cover letter, complete BSc/MSc grades and rankings, a summary of research experience, and a list of scientific outputs. At least two reference letters must be sent directly to the contact email. The deadline is 1 November 2026 at 18:00 CET , with continuous recruitment until the position is filled.