Postdoctoral Scholarship in Biobased Battery Separators at KTH Royal Institute of Technology KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden

KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden, is offering a postdoctoral scholarship in Biobased Battery Separators. The position is based at the Department of Fiber and Polymer Technology, Division of Wood Chemistry and Pulp Technology. The research project focuses on the development and electrochemical evaluation of lignin-rich, biobased separators for aqueous zinc-ion batteries, aiming to advance sustainable and circular materials for energy storage applications. The work involves designing, fabricating, and characterizing separator films from renewable, lignin-rich fibrous materials, with an emphasis on structure–property relationships relevant to battery performance, including electrolyte wettability, ionic transport, mechanical integrity, and electrochemical stability in zinc-based systems.

The project utilizes multidisciplinary approaches, including materials science, chemical engineering, polymer technology, and electrochemistry, to develop fossil-free, recyclable, and resource-efficient battery components. The postdoctoral researcher will actively participate in experimental research, scientific publications, and dissemination of results at international conferences. The research environment is collaborative and international, providing opportunities for professional growth in sustainable materials and energy storage.

Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (or equivalent foreign degree) obtained within the last three years in chemical engineering, polymer technology, materials science, chemistry, electrochemistry, or a closely related field. Strong English communication skills, experience in materials development and characterization, and an experimental background in polymeric or fibrous materials, biobased or sustainable materials, or electrochemical energy storage/electrochemistry are required. Experience with scientific writing, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively are essential. Documented problem-solving skills and a structured approach to experimental research are also expected.

This scholarship provides 29,000 SEK per month for 18 months. EU citizens must provide proof of comprehensive medical and health insurance (EHIC) from their home country for the full stay in Sweden. The application deadline is March 10, 2026. To apply, email your CV, cover letter with research statement, and contact information for up to three references to [email protected], marking your application with reference number HS-2026-0296.

For more information, contact Associate Professor Olena Sevastyanova ([email protected]). The position is aligned with national and European strategies for sustainable energy systems and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of environmentally friendly battery technologies.