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. In the project "Characterization and Design of Battery Materials for Direct Recycling (CIRCULOOP)"
Main Responsibilities:
• Characterize recovered and regenerated materials (XRD, XPS, Raman, SEM-FIB) to quantify contamination, alkali recovery, and structural and morphological integrity compliance with newly developed materials, supporting dry delaminization and green solvent purification pathways;
• Electrochemically test regenerated cathode active materials (coin cell testing) in LFP, LMFP, and Na-ion chemistries to confirm power and performance recovery in line with project objectives;
• Develop and maintain documentation on direct recycling design—collecting data on problem areas from partners and the working group related to disassembly, delamination, purification, and recovery, and structuring them in a constraint matrix linking cell design choices to recyclability;
• Convert validated process data into practical design guidelines, jointly developing a design compendium and policy summary (roadmap) aligned with the EU Battery Regulation (2023/1542);
• Participate in project partner meetings, provide technical support, coordinate data exchange with EURECAT, AVESTA, FZJ, CellCycle, RWTH, MTC, and HOLOSS, and jointly develop related work package results and reports.
Requirements for Candidates:
• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related field—or a Master's degree with substantial relevant experience;
• Practical experience in materials characterization: XRD mandatory; XPS, Raman, and SEM/FIB highly desirable;
• Experience in electrochemical testing, preferably also coin cell assembly and testing;
• Ability to draw structured, substantiated conclusions from diverse data sources;
• Good English language skills (international project conducted in close collaboration with international partners; research results published in high-impact journals and presented at international conferences; work process involves foreign scientific literature);
• Experience coordinating international academic working groups;
• Experience implementing EU-funded research and development projects.
We Offer:
• Fixed-term employment (1 year or project duration) with the possibility of contract extension;
• Work at Ķengaraga iela 8, Riga, in a well-equipped laboratory;
• Access to modern synthesis laboratories, materials characterization infrastructure, and electrochemical testing equipment;
• Compensation of €2000–3200 gross per month or hourly rate of €12.00–19.00/h for full-time work (depending on education level and experience);
• Health insurance policy and other social guarantees in accordance with the Institute of Solid State Physics internal policy.
Application Deadline: October 31, 2026
Applications can be submitted by sending CV, list of published works, 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 proceedings.