Postdoc (f/m/d) – Materials Science or Chemistry for Novel Battery Concepts

Postdoc (f/m/d) – Materials Science or Chemistry for Novel Battery Concepts Reference No.: CE 2025/7 At the Institute for Electrochemical Energy Storage , we explore the fundamental science behind next-generation battery concepts such as sulfur cathodes and lithiated silicon anodes. Our goal is to uncover the key mechanisms responsible for capacity fading — one of the major challenges in battery performance. Leveraging our strong expertise in operando analysis, we closely link this work with the design and synthesis of novel carbon nanostructures as cathode materials for lithium–sulfur systems. Join us in uncovering the mechanisms that limit battery performance and exploring strategies to overcome them. Your Tasks * Develop technologies for the direct recycling of lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries * Develop and optimise regeneration processes for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries for the reuse of spent electrode materials as part of second-life batteries * Utilise operando synchrotron X-ray spectroscopy/microscopy to investigate the regeneration process of spent lithium-ion and sodium-ion cathodes and anodes, as well as the structural changes in bulk and surface phases that occur during the cycling of regenerated materials * Analyse data and write scientific publications * Present and discuss research results at national and international conferences and meetings Your Profile * Completed university studies in the field of materials science or chemistry * Advanced knowledge of electrochemistry & considerable hands-on experimental skills of battery design, fabrication and test, especially for second-life batteries * Experience in the field of direct regeneration of cathode and anode materials * Experienced in analyzing structural changes during the regeneration process of spent cathode materials using synchrotron X-ray techniques and other characterization methods, e.g. XPS, Raman, SEM, etc. * Advanced knowledge on the interpretation of scientific results and presentation * Good skills in research proposal writing, communication, and project management * Good language skills in English Your Benefits * Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers * Commitment to diversity and sustainability through an inclusive working environment,promotion of diversity sensitivity andimplementation of sustainable and climate-neutral methods * Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from theHZB Graduate Centre andHZB Postdoc Office * Attractive remuneration through payment according to Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund) * 30 days holiday/year * Extensive additional benefits, such as company pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transport (Deutschlandticket Job) and company sports programmes * Good work-life balance through counselling services on family and career and flexible working time models: Flexitime, part-time, hybrid working * And a team that is looking forward to meeting you! Fixed term contract for 24 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund). How to apply We look forward to receiving your application via our application management system by10.08.2025. For reasons of data protection regulations, we are unfortunately unable to consider applications that reach us by any other means (such as email or mail) in the application process. We very much want our workplace to be diverse, and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds. It is our mission to promote equal opportunities and to improve women’s representation in the workforce. We are therefore very interested in receiving applications from women. Where the qualifications are met, we will give preference to people with disabilities. Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH Hahn-Meitner-Platz 1, 14109 Berlin www.helmholtz-berlin.de ➜ APPLY HERE! Climate change poses serious challenges to the whole world. At Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, we are researching materials for a climate-neutral future. 1200 employees from all over the world are working together at HZB towards this goal. Join us, and help us achieve it! Learn more about HZB on our website . Follow us on our social media channels LinkedIn , X , Instagram , or visit our YouTube channel . CONTACT Prof. Dr. Yan Lu +49 30 8062 43191 yan.lu@helmholtz-berlin.de IMPRINT &DATA PROTECTION