Postdoctoral Position in Hybrid Sulfur Cathodes and Electrochemical Interfaces for Room-Temperature Sodium–Sulfur Batteries (m/f/d)
01.08.2025
01.09.2025
Full time
About us
The Department of Colloid Chemistry at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces (MPICI) in Potsdam, Germany, is seeking an outstanding and highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join a cutting-edge project focused on the design, synthesis, and mechanistic understanding of next-generation hybrid sulfur cathodes for room-temperature sodium–sulfur (RT Na–S) batteries.
This project is embedded in the broader mission of our institute to develop sustainable and high-performance electrochemical energy storage systems through molecular-level materials engineering. The selected candidate will play a leading role in pushing the frontiers of sulfur-based battery technology by exploring novel synthesis approaches, characterizing complex electrochemical interfaces, and advancing fundamental understanding of ion–surface interactions in hybrid systems.
Postdoctoral Position in Hybrid Sulfur Cathodes and Electrochemical Interfaces (m/f/d)
Your tasks and qualifications
The successful candidate will be responsible for driving innovation across several key research areas:
- Development of novel sulfur cathode materials, including presodiated hybrid sulfur composites with enhanced structural and electrochemical stability
- Systematic exploration of cathode–electrolyte interfaces, with emphasis on the formation, structure, and function of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) in RT Na–S systems
- Design and optimization of advanced electrolytes tailored to stabilize interfaces, suppress parasitic reactions, and enable efficient sulfur redox cycling
- In-depth mechanistic studies using state-of-the-art characterization platforms
- Operando investigations at synchrotron facilities, to monitor the evolution of sulfur speciation, interface formation, and phase transformations during battery operation. Designing custom electrochemical cells and working closely with beamline scientists to perform real-time structural and chemical analysis under operating conditions
- Collaborative work within a highly interdisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, and materials scientists
What we offer
- A full-time position (initially 1 year with possible extension) in a world-class research environment
- Access to cutting-edge infrastructure, including advanced electrochemical and structural characterization tools
- A stimulating, interdisciplinary environment within the vibrant scientific community of the Max Planck Society
- Close mentorship and career development support, with opportunities for collaboration across Max Planck Institutes and international research networks
- The opportunity to contribute to transformative research in sustainable energy storage and publish in high-impact journals