Postdoc in Near-ambient Pressure XPS for batteries

Do you want to advance our understanding of battery interfaces under electrochemical bias using near ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (NAP-XPS)? Come and join the Maibach Research group at the Department of Physics at Chalmers University of Technology as a Postdoctoral Researcher.

About us

At the Division of Materials Physics, we explore the fundamental links between molecular-level structure and dynamics and the macroscopic properties of materials. Our research focuses on energy-related materials for next-generation batteries, with special emphasis on nanostructured electrodes, advanced electrolyte systems, and strategies for stabilizing metal anodes.

We have a strong track record in developing innovative methods and extending characterization techniques to new applications and environments, both in our in-house laboratories and at leading synchrotron and neutron facilities.

The Maibach group combines electrochemistry with advanced surface analysis to uncover how materials interact inside working batteries, aiming to enable more efficient and more sustainable energy storage solutions.

About the research project

The project aims to establish reliable NAP-XPS workflows for the battery community, focussing on model battery systems, current collector materials, and simplified electrolytes. We will establish a lab-based NAP-XPS at Chalmers in 2026 featuring in-situ/operando battery capabilities. You will explore the electrochemical response of operando cells compared to typical lab-based cells and optimize electrode geometires.This project is part of Batteries Sweden (BASE) and with this project you will have the unique opportunity to work on both in-house and synchrotron NAP-XPS instruments to shape community guidelines for reproducible and reliable battery interface studies under more realistic conditions.

Who we are looking for
The following requirements are mandatory:

• To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must hold a doctoral degree in physics, materials science, chemistry/chemical engineering or a related field,awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline*.
• You will need strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Experience with XPS, preferably NAP-XPS
• Strong background in electrochemistry
• Familiarity with battery materials and electrochemical cell design is highly desirable
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative research environment
• Proficiency in scientific writing and data analysis

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

• The date on your doctoral degree certificate is considered the official date of completion. Exceptions to the three-year eligibility limit may be made for documented circumstances such as parental leave, sick leave, or military service.

What you will do

• Design and conduct NAP-XPS experiments on battery-relevant materials under electrochemical bias
• Develop and validate operando cell configurations for NAP-XPS
• Compare electrochemical performance of NAP-XPS cells and conventional lab-based cells
• Collaborate with researchers within the Swedish battery community and contribute to method standardization
• Disseminate results through publications, presentations, and workshops.
• Supervise master's and/or PhD students to a certain extent
• Possibility to engage in teaching at undergraduate/master's level

The position is meritorious for future roles in academia, industry, or the public sector.

Contract terms

The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years with the possibility of a one-year extension.

The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Read more about Sweden's generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Application procedure

The application should be written in English be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV

• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.

Personal letter

• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
• An outline of your future goals and research focus.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.

We welcome your application no later than January 13, 2026

For questions please contact:

Assistant Professor Julia Maibach, Materials Physics

email:

We look forward to your application

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.

Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.

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