In the frame of the Excellence Cluster POLiS you will address critical gaps in understanding the surface reactivity of alkali metal-based electrodes under realistic battery operating conditions. By leveraging NAP-XPS, the project seeks to provide detailed insights into surface chemistry and its implications for battery performance.

For this purpose, you will explore in situ the influence of oxidizing and reducing conditions on the surface of alkali metal-based electrodes during aging at open-circuit voltage and cycling under representative battery conditions.  Specifically, you will investigate the effects of electrode surface treatment methods on the solid electroyte interphase (SEI) characteristics developed during open-circuit voltage, and on the cycle life of the electrodes. By simulating realistic battery conditions—including exposure to gaseous reactants such as oxygen, water vapor, and carbon dioxide—using laboratory-based near-ambient pressure XPS (NAP-XPS), you will gain detailed insight into alkali metal surface reactivity and its implications for battery stability and performance.

Your activities in detail:

• Investigate operando the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation processes and their impact on battery performance
• Develop optimized surface treatment protocols to enhance electrode performance and longevity
• Develop dedicated cell to perform operando NAP-XPS measurement on electrode in operating conditions
• Establish a foundational framework for future research in alkali metal chemistry and its role in energy storage technologies.
• Coordination of the work with internal and external partners

The position offers the possibility of a doctorate alongside your work

• The candidate should have a Master degree in the field of Materials Engineering, Chemistry or related field
• Strong interest in interdisciplinary research, a willingness to engage with chemistry and battery research, and a creative mindset for new ideas
• Experience in the field of electrochemistry applied to battery technology
• Knowledge in the field of surface sciences and surface characterization using photo-electron-spectroscopy (XPS)
• Very good written and spoken German and English skills are required