Click here to join now
A fully funded PhD position in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science is available at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, Norway. The position is offered by the Department of Chemical Engineering and is linked to the AMAZIEN research project on advanced materials for aqueous zinc–iodine batteries and sustainable energy storage systems.
About NTNU
The Norwegian University of Science and Technology is a leading technical university with a strong scientific profile and an international research environment. With thousands of employees and students across multiple campuses, NTNU focuses on developing knowledge and innovation that contribute to sustainable global development.
Research Project Overview – AMAZIEN
The AMAZIEN project aims to transform multifunctional membrane materials into high-performance cathodes and separators for aqueous Zn–I₂ batteries. This next-generation battery technology addresses critical energy storage challenges such as polyiodide shuttling, zinc dendrite formation, and slow iodine redox kinetics.
By combining membrane science, nanostructured materials, electrochemistry, and knowledge derived from lithium–sulfur battery research, the project seeks to significantly improve battery capacity, cycling stability, operational safety, and energy efficiency. A key research focus is understanding structure–property relationships governing ion transport and electrochemical performance.
Key Responsibilities
The PhD candidate will complete doctoral education leading to a PhD degree while conducting high-quality research within the AMAZIEN framework. Core responsibilities include:
- Designing, synthesizing, and characterizing advanced separator and membrane materials
- Assembling and testing aqueous Zn–I₂ battery cells
- Performing electrochemical analysis and material characterization
- Publishing results in internationally recognized scientific journals
- Presenting findings at national and international conferences
- Contributing to interdisciplinary research collaboration
Required Qualifications
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree equivalent to a five-year Norwegian education program in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Nanotechnology, or a closely related field. A strong academic record corresponding to at least a B average under NTNU’s grading system is required.
Candidates must qualify for admission to the PhD programme at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
Preferred Qualifications
The following experience will be considered advantageous:
- Membrane materials and polymer science
- Nanocomposite materials and advanced materials synthesis
- Battery materials and separator technologies
- Electrochemical characterization techniques
- Scientific writing and peer-reviewed publications
Desired Personal Attributes
The ideal candidate is highly motivated, research-oriented, and capable of independent and structured work. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and interest in interdisciplinary collaboration are essential. Communication skills and the ability to engage professionally within a research team are highly valued.
Employment Terms and Benefits
The PhD position is offered for a period of three years, with competitive salary under the Norwegian public sector pay scale. Employees benefit from pension membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, access to modern laboratory facilities, research funding support, mentoring programs, and Norwegian language training.
Employment is subject to admission into the PhD programme within three months of appointment and compliance with Norwegian state regulations, including export control legislation. Physical presence at the institution is required to ensure effective academic collaboration.
Diversity and Inclusion
NTNU promotes diversity, equality, and gender balance in scientific positions. The university encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and values inclusive research environments that enhance innovation and societal impact.
Application Requirements
Applications must be submitted electronically and include academic transcripts, diplomas, curriculum vitae, a digital copy of the Master’s thesis, a short motivation letter, relevant publications, certificates, and contact information for referees. International applicants must provide official documentation verifying the scope and quality of their academic qualifications.
Living in Trondheim, Norway
The position is based in Trondheim, widely recognized as Norway’s technology capital with approximately 200,000 residents. The city offers a high standard of living, strong welfare infrastructure, accessible healthcare, subsidized childcare, international education options, clean air, low crime rates, and proximity to nature and cultural activities, making it an attractive location for doctoral research and professional development in sustainable energy storage and advanced materials engineering.
