Website Uppsala University
Job description
The PhD project focuses on the development of materials and processes for electrochemical extraction and recovery of lithium from brines and waste streams. The focus will be on electroactive metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) materials, which will be applied in different device architectures. The aim of the project is to develop efficient and selective lithium extraction processes by investigating key factors such as electrode material properties, electrolyte composition, effect of impurities, structural properties of different MOFs, as well as parameters such as device architecture and electrolyte flow rate. The two PhD students will work closely with researchers in the Ångström lab at the Department of Chemistry. The applicants will be asked to indicate whether they wish to contribute to the project in terms of MOF synthesis and preliminary electrochemical studies or in terms of electrode development, device integration and performance studies. The joint effort of the two students will involve both fundamental and applied research addressing challenges related to material stability, selectivity, and scalability of electrochemical extraction processes. Various MOFs will be compared to other commonly used electrode materials to understand their potential use as high performance electrode materials. The properties of the most promising MOFs will be optimized to improve lithium recovery. These projects will require extensive use of advanced analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), as well as a range of electrochemical methods to characterize material properties and extraction efficiency. The PhD student will be involved in collaborating, planning and executing experiments, thereby gaining experience in materials analysis, electrochemistry and analytical techniques. The primary responsibility of the PhD student is to carry out research. Teaching may also be included but will not exceed 20% of the working time. The student will also take third cycle courses related to the research topic. PhD students are expected to carry out high quality research as part of a team and to disseminate the results of their research through publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and international conferences.
offer requirements
Candidates must have obtained a second-cycle qualification in Chemistry or Materials Science, or have fulfilled the course requirements of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits have been obtained in the second phase, or have otherwise acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in Sweden or abroad. Good oral and written English language skills. Documented theoretical and practical experience in electrochemistry. Ability to express oneself clearly, document experimental work, and collaborate with others in a research environment. Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and enhance ongoing research within the Department and contribute to the future development of the Department.
offer benefits
Learn about our benefits and more about working at Uppsala University: https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/. Uppsala University is a wide-ranging research university with an international profile. The ultimate goal of Uppsala University is to carry out education and research of the highest quality and relevance, contributing to society. Our most important assets are our 7,600 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and dedication, make Uppsala University one of the most exciting places to work in Sweden.