PhD student (m/f/d)

The University of Bayreuth is a research-oriented university with internationally competitive and interdisciplinary profile fields in research and teaching. At the chair of Inorganic Active Materials for Electrochemical Energy Storage (Prof. Dr. Matteo Bianchini) the following temporary position is available, starting in October 2026 or soon thereafter:

German salary scale TV-L E13 (67 %)
Topic: Fe-Based Layered Oxides from Na/Li Ion Exchange for Sustainable Li-Ion Batteries

We are looking for an excellent PhD student (m/f/d) to integrate our group at the Bavarian Center for Battery Technology (BayBatt, University of Bayreuth).

Your tasks:

The project is focused on the development and understanding of Fe- and Mn-based layered cathode materials for Li-ion batteries obtained through Na/Li ion exchange reactions. The project aims to prepare and investigate O2-type layered oxides obtained from P2-type sodium precursors, with the ultimate goal of stabilizing metastable polymorphs that cannot be accessed through conventional synthesis routes. We will pioneer the combined computational and experimental investigation of Fe-containing O2-type layered Li oxides, addressing a critical gap in the current literature while contributing to the broader goal of reducing reliance on Co- and Ni-based battery technologies.

In particular, we seek to develop a fundamental understanding of the ion exchange process and of the parameters governing successful Na/Li exchange reactions, especially concerning phase purity, structural defects, and faulting mechanisms. The project combines experimental materials chemistry with state-of-the-art computational modelling and addresses a key challenge in the development of sustainable battery materials based on earth-abundant elements.

The computational part of the project will be carried out in collaboration with the team of Dr. Sicolo and Prof. Albe at TU Darmstadt. Experimentally, the project is carried out at UBT and your tasks will involve the synthesis and characterization of layered oxide materials using advanced structural, spectroscopic, and electrochemical techniques.

Your profile:

PhD student’s (m/f/d) with a Master’s or Diploma degree with a background in inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science or related disciplines are particularly encouraged to apply. Experience in battery materials, solid-state chemistry, crystallography, or computational modelling is advantageous but not required. The aim is to build a diverse and inclusive research group, hence open-minded and free-thinking individuals are welcome. The initial contract is for 1 years with the prospect for further extension (+2).

The University of Bayreuth values the diversity of its employees and is expressly committed to the goal of gender equality. Women are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants with children are very welcome. The University of Bayreuth is a member of the Best Practice Network “Familie in der Hochschule e.V.”, and has successfully participated in the HRK audit “Internationalization of the University”. Persons with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if equally qualified.

Please apply online with your CV, BsC/MsC transcripts and cover letter specific to this position by 30^th August 2026 using the keyword “Ion exchange” EXCLUSIVELY via the application portal of the University of Bayreuth https://www.uni-bayreuth.de/en/job-vacancies#Research. The documents will be deleted in accordance with data protection requirements once the position has been filled.

For further information about the position, about our group or about the chair, please contact Prof. Dr. Matteo Bianchini (matteo.bianchini@uni-bayreuth.de, phone: +49 921 55-4380) or visit www.bianchini.uni-bayreuth.de.