Postdoc in computational analysis of Zinc-air batteries

DTU Energy at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) invites applications for a 1.5 years (18 months) postdoc position in the area of computational analysis of Zinc-air batteries.

The project is funded by European Union within the Horizon 2020 program and is aligned with the Department focus area on batteries. The project also involves collaboration with international research centres, e.g. SINTEF in Trondheim (Norway) and CIDITEC in San Sebastian (Spain) and with industry, e.g. VARTA and Inabensa.

Project description
The successful candidate will develop a theoretical models based on Density Functional Theory to describe different physical and chemical processes that take place at the electrodes of Zn-air batteries. Specifically, the successful candidate will carry out simulations of the kinetics for the reduction and evolution of oxygen on state-of-the-art, non-precious bi-functional air electrodes. Regarding the anode, the successful candidate will investigate of the dissolution of zinc and zinc-alloy based anodes in selected electrolytes, e.g., Zn-Al alloys in ionic liquids and aqueous electrolytes with different additives, to improve the dissolution characteristics and suppress the hydrogen evolution reaction.

Qualifications
Candidates should have a Ph.D. degree in computational/theoretical physics, chemistry or materials science.

The successful candidate should posses:

  1. Scientific publications in the relevant topics
  2. Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken
  3. Is able to work independently and take responsibility for progress and quality of projects
  4. Enthusiasm for working in collaboration with experimental groups
  5. Well established skills to work in a team
  6. Strong computer programming skills

Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by: Prof. Tejs Vegge

We offer
We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research, public-sector consultancy and innovation, which contribute to enhancing the economy and improving social welfare. We strive for academic excellence, collegial respect and freedom tempered by responsibility. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations (AC). The allowance will be agreed with the relevant union.

The employment is expected to start 1 July 2015 or shortly thereafter.

Application
We must have your online application by 10 June 2015. Apply online at www.career.dtu.dk

Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online,” fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include: A letter motivating the application (cover letter) Curriculum vitae Diploma (an official translation into English) List of publications.

Candidates may apply prior to ob­tai­ning their Ph.D. degree, but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications and enclosures received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

Deadline: 10 June 2015

Register and Apply online