Doctoral student in computational modelling of zinc-metal batteries

Electrochemical energy storage based on abundant and recyclable materials will play a central role in the green transition toward a fossil-free energy system. As a doctoral student in the Stenlid lab, you will use advanced computational chemistry and materials modelling to understand and learn to control interfacial reactions in renewable aqueous zinc-metal batteries in close collaboration with experimental groups. The project integrates theoretical chemistry, electrochemistry, and surface science, contributing to the development of advanced battery technologies while supporting your growth as an independent researcher.

Project overview

Rechargeable aqueous zinc-metal batteries offer a promising route toward affordable, safe, and sustainable energy storage based on abundant and recyclable materials, aligned with European value chains. However, large-scale deployment is hindered by parasitic interfacial reactions at the zinc–electrolyte interface, including dendrite formation, corrosion, and by-product generation. Unlike Li-ion batteries, the targeted zinc batteries operate in aqueous, pH-dependent environments. A mechanistic, atomic-scale understanding of interfacial chemistry is essential for achieving durable and recyclable zinc-metal batteries.

You will join the Stenlid lab at the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. The lab tackles fundamental questions in surface- and electrochemistry aiming to design materials for (electro)catalytic and energy storage applications supporting a sustainable society. The project is a partnership with the Maibach group at the Chalmers Division of Materials Physics, contributing advanced materials characterization, electrochemical analysis, and testing of the battery cells.

As a member of the Stenlid lab, you will be exposed to a broad range of computational methodologies, ranging fromatomistic and electronic-structure–based materials modeling and characterization, via machine-learning and high-throughput methods, to ab initio calculation of electrochemical reaction kinetics. The position is funded by the Swedish Energy Agency’s research program “Sustainable Battery Value Chain” and includes multidisciplinary collaborations where research visits to national and international research groups are encouraged.

About the division and the department

At the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, research activities reach from fundamental chemistry, chemistry at the interface of biology and medicine, materials science, renewable energy, to chemical engineering processing, material recycling, nuclear chemistry, as well as theory and modelling. We have projects and competence that are in the top front in certain areas, and present results that are met with a lot of interest from the surrounding world.

The secret life of molecules is the main theme of our research and teaching in the Division of Chemistry and Biochemistry. We are studying how small and large molecules can be produced, their interaction with each other in materials or in living cells, their use in the development of pharmaceuticals and how they can capture and convert energy. The results of our fundamental research facilitates applications in areas ranging from energy and materials to nanotechnology and medicine.

Who we are looking for

• A Master's degree (
  • Experience with or knowledge of quantum chemistry and computational chemistry tools.
  • Familiarity with electrochemistry, batteries, and energy storage.
  • Programming skills in Python or other languages.
  • Research experience in academic or industrial environments.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.

  What you will do

  Your primary responsibilities include:

  • Conducting research within the project scope.
  • Supporting collaborations with national and international research groups.
  • Undertaking departmental duties (approximately 10% of working hours) such as teaching, supervision, or leadership development.
  • Pursuing doctoral studies by developing scientific concepts and communicating research results verbally and in writing.

  This position will prepare you for a successful career in industry, academia, or other sectors.

  Contract terms

  • The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
  • The position is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position up to five years.
  • A starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 25, 2025).
  • Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.

  What we offer

  • As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers  and our benefits for employees.
  • A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
  • Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.

  Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence.

  If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

  Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here. 

  Application procedure

  The application should be written in English and attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

  Applications must be written in English and submitted as PDF files (maximum size: 40 MB per file). Note that ZIP files are not supported.

  Required documents:

  • CV: Include previous employment, leadership qualifications, and positions of trust. Provide the names and contact information for two references.
    
  • Personal letter: (1–3 pages)
  • Introduce yourself.
  • Describe your previous experience relevant to the position (e.g., education, thesis work, or research activities).
  • Outline your future goals and research focus.
    
  • Other documents:
  • Copies of your Bachelor’s and/or Master’s thesis.
  • Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades, and other certificates (e.g., TOEFL test results).

  Use the button at the bottom of this page to submit your application. Please ensure your application is complete, as incomplete submissions or applications sent via email will not be considered.

  Please note that assessment tests may be conducted as part of the recruitment process.

  Application deadline: 8th March, 2026

  Contact information:

  For questions, please contact:

  Assistant Professor Joakim Halldin Stenlid
  Email: [emailprotected]
  Phone: +46 31 772 29 14

  *** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 

  Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
  Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.