PhD scholarship in electrolyte engineering for next-generation batteries DTU Chemistry

If the idea of developing next-generation batteries charges you up then this PhD position at the Department of Chemistry DTU is for you! We are working to develop deeper understanding of ion transport and failure in batteries by probing their electrolytes so they can charge faster operate more safely and work in colder climates. This 3-year project will teach you about battery analysis using a range of electrochemical methods and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques supervised by Assistant Professor Leo W. Gordon. The expected start date is on or close to September 1^st_.

As the battery field matures new electrolytes will be required to target specific applications and particular as we consider the use of batteries under more extreme conditions more must be understood about the temperature-dependent transport mechanisms at play through the electrolyte. It is challenging to understand these systems under operation and without perturbation of the sample. Furthermore species-specific information is critical to appropriately attribute performance changes to electrolyte modification. Therefore a chemically sensitive non-destructive technique is needed to gain deep understanding of the transport and chemical mechanisms at play.

This research will utilise a suite of NMR characterisation tools that can resolve ion-specific information to probe battery electrolytes under non-equilibrium conditions. These methods will be combined with electrochemical characterisation to develop a comprehensive understanding of the transport mechanisms in a range of characteristic electrolytes and under a variety of operating conditions in addition to elucidating possible failure modes under these conditions.

Responsibilities and qualifications
This project is primarily experimental has a strong emphasis on NMR spectroscopy and electrochemistry. Prior knowledge of NMR and/or electrochemistry are preferred but not required.

You must have a two-year masters degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year masters degree.

The degree should be in chemistry chemical engineering materials science or a related field. The ideal candidate should be driven by clean energy and sustainability goals and have a keen interest in developing innovative new methods to understand physical phenomena across multiple length scales. They should demonstrate a positive self-starting attitude and should have a deep curiosity to drive their science. Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential.

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme please seeDTUs rules for the PhD education.

Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Assistant Professor Leo W. Gordon.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research education innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

The starting date is September 1^st or similar according to mutual agreement and the position is full time.

You can read more aboutcareer paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Assistant Professor Leo W. Gordon ().

You can read more about DTU Chemistry at you are applying from abroad you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU atDTU Moving to you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar PhDrelocation to Denmark and startup Zoom seminar for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later thanFriday 12 June 2026 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply please open the link Apply now fill out 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
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
• A writing sample of a published paper pre-print or thesis with a short accompanying statement clearly detailing your contributions and key findings.

You may apply prior to obtaining your masters degree but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age gender disability race religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology which is subject to special rules for security and export control open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

The Department of Chemistry performs research educational activities and innovation at a high international level within e.g. energy catalysis and materials. The overall aim is to contribute with new knowledge about basic scientific problems and carry out research with vast application perspectives - to the benefit of both society and companies.

DTU For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europes leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europes global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13800 students 1600 PhD students and 6500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive stimulating and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.