"Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student), Aqueous Binder Development and Aqueous Processing of Ni-rich Cathode Materials for Lithium-ion Batteries"

The University of Eastern Finland is inviting applications for a Doctoral Researcher (PhD student) position in the field of Aqueous Binder Development and Aqueous Processing of Ni-rich Cathode Materials for Lithium-ion Batteries at the Department of Technical Physics on the Kuopio campus. The position will be filled for a fixed term of three years as from 1 April 2026 (or as agreed).

We are seeking a motivated Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student) to join a research project which will involve comprehensive research on the development and fundamental understanding of advanced aqueous-based binders, and their integration into aqueous processing routes for Ni-rich cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries. The overall aim is to enable high-performance lithium-ion battery cathodes while improving the sustainability of battery manufacturing and end-of-life processing.

The research combines fundamental mechanistic studies and performance-oriented investigation. Experimental work integrates materials chemistry, formulation, and interfacial analysis with electrochemical characterization, supported by advanced characterization techniques, to elucidate structure–processing–performance relationships in aqueous-processed Ni-rich cathodes incorporating the developed binders.

The Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student) will develop novel aqueous binders to be integrated into aqueous processing routes for Ni-rich cathode materials. The central objective is to elucidate how binder chemistry, formulation, and binder–cathode material interactions govern slurry stability, electrode integrity, interfacial chemistry, and electrochemical performance, as well as binder-enabled material recovery.

As our new Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student), your responsibilities will include

• conducting material and binder design, comprehensive characterization, electrode fabrication, electrochemical measurements, including the evaluation of material recovery where relevant
• performing high-quality research and disseminating results through high-impact publications and presentations at conferences, and other project-related dissemination activities
• collaborating with colleagues within the university, industry partners, and other research partners through shared materials, data exchange, and joint analysis.

The main duty of the Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student) is to conduct research for their doctoral dissertation and to complete postgraduate studies.

The position will be filled for a fixed term of three years as from 1 April 2026 (or as agreed). ... A trial period is applied to all new members of the staff.

The salary of the position is determined in accordance with the salary system for Finnish universities. ... At the beginning of the employment the total salary will be approximately EUR 2,650 – 2,785 /month.

Requirements

• eligibility for postgraduate studies; i.e., holding a Master’s degree in chemistry, physics, material science and engineering, electrochemistry or a related field...
• meeting the student admission criteria for the LUMETO doctoral programme (Doctoral Programme in Science, Forestry and Technology, website)
• a good command of written and spoken English
• ability to work independently as well as within a research team, with strong collaborative skills
• extensive hands-on experience in various material characterization techniques, strong analytical skills, including experience with data analysis tools and techniques.

The following will be considered an advantage

• previous research experience in rechargeable batteries...
• experience with aqueous binders, polymer-based materials, or biomass-derived materials...

Your benefits
You will have access to the university’s staff benefits, including the opportunity for flexible multi-location work, extensive occupational health care, a broad selection of staff training, staff discount on lunch in our campus restaurants, as well as on a range of other services, affordable sports services. Work at UEF. Life in Finland.

How to apply?
Submit your application by using our electronic application form no later than 23 February 2026 by 23:59 (midnight) Finnish time (UTC+2).
Please note that you must include the following appendices in your application:
- a CV (Template for CV, TENK website)
- a list of publications (Instructions, Research Council of Finland website)
- copies of your academic degree certificates / diplomas...
- a transcript of records
- a motivation letter (max. 1 page)...
- other documents to demonstrate the applicant’s merits for the position

Questions?
For further information on the position, please contact Associate Professor Haidong Liu, email: haidong.liu@uef.fi, tel. +358 50 328 2749.
For further information on the application procedure, please contact HR Specialist Iiris Korhonen...