Postdoc (M/F): In situ exploration of the battery electrode/electrolyte interface via electrogravimetry
Postdoc @French National Centre for Scientific Research posted 2 days agoJob Description
General information
Job title: Postdoc (M/F): In situ exploration of the battery electrode/electrolyte interface via electrogravimetry
Reference: UMR8260-OZLSEL-010
Number of positions: 1
Work location: PARIS 05
Publication date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Type of contract: Researcher on fixed-term contract
Contract duration: 24 months
Expected hiring date: October 1, 2025
Workload: Full
Remuneration: between €2,889.51 and €4,082.90 gross monthly depending on experience
Desired level of studies: Doctorate
Desired experience: 1 to 4 years
CN section(s): 14 – Coordination chemistry, catalysis and processes, interfaces
Missions
We are looking for a motivated and skilled postdoctoral researcher (M/F) to work on a fundamental study of interfaces in non-aqueous batteries, in particular on the dynamics at the electrolyte–electrode interface and ion intercalation mechanisms.
This position is part of the ANR DEEP-SENS project, which aims to better understand electrode–electrolyte interfaces in rechargeable batteries through in situ characterization methods.
The project uses ac-electrogravimetry, a technique that combines piezoelectric sensors (QCM type) with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), to study key phenomena in systems such as lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, including: (i) the formation of SEI/CEI layers, (ii) ion (de)solvation, (iii) ion transfer at the interface and (iv) the evolution of the mechanical properties of the electrodes during cycles.
Activities
The project will study the behavior of ions at the electrode–electrolyte interface, focusing on the desolvation of ions before their intercalation. For this, advanced electrochemical techniques such as EQCM associated with SIE (ac-electrogravimetry) will be used to monitor mass and charge transfers in real time.
The study will start with classical electrolytes to lay the foundations, with the possibility of expanding to other compositions depending on the progress of the project.
Main activities:
• Carry out EQCM and ac-electrogravimetric measurements to analyze the interfaces.
• Interpret the results to understand desolvation and its effects on intercalation.
• Conduct complementary characterizations with classical methods.
• Participate in the development of relationships between electrolyte composition and their performance.
• Work in conjunction with experimental and theoretical partners to validate the data.
SKILLS
• PhD in electrochemistry, materials science, physical chemistry or a related field.
• Strong experience with interfaces in batteries, ion transport or surface analysis.
• Working knowledge of EQCM and SIE techniques; experience in ac-electrogravimetry would be a strong asset.
• Good knowledge of non-aqueous electrolytes and intercalation materials.
• Excellent data analysis and scientific writing skills.
Work context
This postdoctoral project is part of an ANR project (DEEP-SENS), which brings together two academic laboratories and a company: the CSE – Laboratory of Solid State Chemistry and Energy (Collège de France, Paris), the LISE – Laboratory of Interfaces and Electrochemical Systems (Sorbonne University, Paris), as well as the company BioLogic (Grenoble).
Within the Collège de France (Paris, France), the Solid State Chemistry – Energy (CSE) laboratory is an internationally renowned laboratory specializing in fundamental materials science for energy storage and the development of storage devices.
The main activities of the CSE include the design of new insertion materials, the study of new lithium reactivity mechanisms, the mastery of interfaces, as well as the exploration of alternative chemistries beyond Li-ion (such as Na-ion, all-solid-state batteries, etc.). The laboratory is also developing in situ approaches for monitoring key battery parameters, using integrated sensors.
Constraints and risks
No
