Researcher

Latvijas Universitātes Cietvielu fizikas institūts

LATVIJA, Ķengaraga iela 8, Rīga, Rīga, Latvia

Job Description: Competition for a Researcher position at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, reg. No. 90002124925 Position Objective: Scientific research work in the field of physical chemistry, materials physics and chemistry. Project "Battery Protection Coatings and Operando Characterization (LACISE)" Key Responsibilities: • Develop and optimize inert coatings for layered Li-ion and P2-type Na-ion cathodes; • Adapt coating thickness, composition, and synthesis methods (chemical and mechanical); • Evaluate coating stability and its electrochemical impact through operando and degradation studies; • Develop and apply in-situ, operando and post-mortem characterization to investigate structural degradation, interface changes and gas evolution (operando XRD, synchrotron XAS, SEM/TEM, XPS, ICP, Raman spectroscopy); • Research and document findings to iteratively improve materials; • Work closely with Swiss PSI partners and the broader LACISE working group; • Publish results in high-impact journals and present at international conferences. Candidate Requirements: • Master's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering or related field • Eligibility to enroll in a doctoral program at the University of Latvia • Strong commitment to conducting high-impact research • Ability to work independently and thrive in an international team • Excellent English writing and communication skills (International project conducted in close collaboration with international partners, research results published in high-impact journals and presented at international conferences. Foreign scientific literature is used in the work process.) Highly Desirable Qualifications: • Experience in electrochemistry or functional materials research • Previous experience in in-situ or operando characterization; • Experience with synchrotron methods or strong interest in them. We Offer: • Fixed-term employment (1 year or project duration) • Work at Ķengaraga iela 8, Rīga, in a well-equipped laboratory • Salary 1600-2000 euro gross for full-time work (depending on education level and experience) • Health insurance policy and other social benefits according to the Institute of Solid State Physics internal policy Application Deadline: October 31, 2026 Applications can be submitted by sending CV, list of publications, motivation letter describing previous research experience, copies of education documents, and copies of documents certifying scientific degrees to [email protected] By applying for the competition, the candidate agrees to the processing of their personal data to ensure the competition process.