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 1st.
As the battery field matures, new electrolytes will be required to target specific applications and materials. In 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 master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's 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 see DTU's rules for the PhD education
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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 1st or similar, according to mutual agreement and the position is full time.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here .
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Assistant Professor Leo W. Gordon (lewigo@kemi.dtu.dk).
You can read more about DTU Chemistry at www.kemi.dtu.dk/english.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation 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 than Friday 12 June 2026 (23:59 Danish time)
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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 master's 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 Europe's 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 Europe's 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 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 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.
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