Postdoc position: Chemist for selective ion scavenging in batteries

Develop melt-spun liquid/gel-core fibers with polyolefin sheaths and functionalized, hydrophobic cores. Explore selective scavenger systems for transition metal (TM) ions and HF, including chelating ligands, reactive nanoparticles and additives. Optimize melt-spinning, uniaxial stretching, and post-treatment steps to control sheath porosity and ion diffusion. Acquisition of research grants and writing of scientific publications. Supervision of students and interns. Collaborate closely with chemists, materials scientists, and electrochemists.

Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain. Our Laboratory for Advanced Fibers in St. Gallen develops functional polymer fibers with applications in energy storage, health and environmental technologies. We are pioneering a new class of melt-spun liquid-core fibers that selectively scavenge transition metal ions and other degradation products in lithium-ion batteries, mitigating cell damage and prolonging battery life.

• PhD in chemistry (or a closely related field such as polymer science or materials science)

• Experience with polymer–ion interactions, chelation chemistry, or battery materials is an advantage

• You enjoy interdisciplinary teamwork and are motivated to publish high-impact results

• Fluency in English; German is an asset.