The research project focuses on the development of protected lithium metal anodes for all-solid-state batteries. Your task is to investigate and mitigate dendrite formation using protective coatings to improve cycle life and safety of all-solid-state batteries with lithium metal anodes. You will be embedded in the collaborative research framework of a European Horizon 2020 project. This will enable you to interact with leading European academic and industrial partners including a large cell maker. Within this project, the ability to publish is not restricted. Generation of intellectual property in the form of patents is encouraged.

Our labs are fully equipped for electrolyte development and testing. State-of-the-art facilities include synthesis labs with fume hoods, Schlenk lines, rotary evaporator, temperature-dependent viscosity, conductivity, and density analysis, thermal analysis (TGA, DSC), Raman and FTIR spectrometers, glove-boxes, facilities to assemble coin cells, Swagelok cells as well as small pouch cells, electrochemical characterization including battery cyclers (Arbin, Bio-Logic), impedance spectroscopy (Bio-Logic, Novo-control), X-ray diffractometers (including operando cells) etc. Access to NMR (including PFG-NMR), elemental analysis (CHN, ICP-OES), advanced electron microscopy facilities (SEM, TEM) and surface analytical tools (XPS, ToF-SIMS) is also available.

We are looking for a highly self-motivated team player ready to work independently in Empa’s vibrant international research environment. The ideal candidate possesses a PhD in chemistry, materials science or related fields. Prior experience in electrochemistry and battery research is an advantage.