Postdoc Position in X-ray Photon Science

The Department of X-ray Photon Science is world-leading in the development and use of advanced X-ray methods to study materials through the interaction between light and matter.

This places us at the forefront of atomic-level studies of atoms, molecules, and condensed matter. The department encompasses the research program Physics of Energy Materials, with a particular focus on the study and development of materials, surfaces, and interfaces of significance for various energy applications, with an overarching goal of contributing to the development of a sustainable society.

This recruitment is linked to COMPEL (COMPetitiveness for the ELectrification of the Transport System), a strategic initiative from the Swedish government to ensure Sweden's long-term competitiveness in battery development and the electrification of the transport sector. The platform integrates research and education along the entire battery value chain and offers an interdisciplinary network for collaboration. Within the framework of COMPEL, researchers early in their careers with various competencies across all parts of the battery value chain are recruited, with the vision of creating a unique interdisciplinary research and educational environment. The initiative is based on strong collaboration between academic institutions and industrial partners to promote research, development, and innovation.

The employee is expected to actively participate in national COMPEL activities such as seminars, courses, research visits, strategic meetings, and other activities aimed at promoting strong interdisciplinary and international networks among PhD students, postdocs, researchers, and industry, as well as creating good conditions for future career development.

The postdoc position is placed in Dr. Soham Mukherjee's research group at the Department of X-ray Physics within the research program Physics of Energy Materials. The project focuses on batteries and aims to develop new X-ray spectroscopic operando methods (photon-in/photon-out), which enable atomic-level understanding of material design with improved sustainability and recycling. A particular focus is on operando investigations of various battery cathode materials to achieve a real-time mechanistic understanding of battery function. Experimental results will be complemented by modeling how these mechanisms affect battery performance and stability.

We are looking for a candidate who will design operando battery cells tailored for X-ray spectroscopic photon-in/photon-out techniques and who can address current questions regarding various battery components through understanding electronic effects and material geometry at the atomic level. The work will be carried out in close collaboration with Associate Professor Maria Hahlin at the Department of Chemistry - Ångström, supported by theoretical calculations from partners within the research constellation.

The candidate will be part of a broad research environment in X-ray spectroscopy within the research program Physics of Energy Materials, which actively collaborates within the COMPEL network and is united by the common goal of strengthening the battery value chain in Sweden.

Responsibilities

The main task is research, with the possibility of up to 20% teaching. Specific responsibilities include:

• Battery design and cell development
• Operando X-ray-based measurement methods for both internal laboratories and synchrotron light sources, primarily MAX IV.
• Analysis of spectroscopic data on battery samples.
• Writing and publishing scientific articles.
• Participation in COMPEL activities throughout Sweden.

Qualifications

PhD in Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science. The degree must be completed by the time the employment decision is made. Preference should be given to those who have completed their degree no more than three years ago. When calculating the three-year timeframe, the last application date is the starting point. If there are special reasons, such a degree may have been obtained earlier. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, or trust assignments within trade unions, etc.

Good communication skills in spoken and written English are required. Knowledge and practical experience in energy materials are required.

Desirable/meritorious

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive, and independence, as well as the applicant's experience and potential in the area of future tasks. Advanced analysis of the electronic structure of materials, handling instrumentation, and programming (e.g., in Matlab or Python) is meritorious.

Application

CV

• Copy of relevant degree documents (translated into Swedish or English)
• A list of publications
• Up to five selected publications in electronic format
• A research description outlining your past and current research (max 1 page) as well as a proposal for future activities (max 1 page)
• Contact details for two references
• All applicants must indicate the earliest possible start date

About the employment

The employment is temporary for 2 years according to the central collective agreement. The extent is full-time. Start date 01/04/2026 or by agreement. Place of employment: Uppsala

For inquiries about the position, please contact: Soham Mukherjee, +46 7623 50595, [email protected]

Welcome with your application by February 20, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/74.

Please note that this is a shortened version of the advertisement. To see the full advertisement, please click on “Apply here” or visit Uppsala University's website for job advertisements.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,600 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University here (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/).

The employment may be subject to security clearance. A prerequisite for employment in the case of security clearance is that the applicant is approved.

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Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]