Postdoctoral Position (m/f/d) in Interfaces and Protective Layers for Room–Temperature Sodium–Sulfur Batteries

Potsdam, Germany

2025-11-15 (Europe/Berlin)

About us

The Department of Colloid Chemistry at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces (MPICI) in Potsdam Science Park, Germany is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join an innovative project exploring electrode–electrolyte interfaces in advanced sulfur cathode systems for room-temperature sodium–sulfur batteries.

In this role, you will contribute to pioneering research aimed at understanding and controlling electrochemical interfaces and at creating functional, ion-conductive surface layers that deliver stable performance, long cycle life, and high efficiency under realistic operating conditions.

This project is embedded in the broader mission of our institute - to push the boundaries of sustainable, high-performance electrochemical energy storage through cutting-edge materials design, precision interface engineering, and deep mechanistic insight.

Your tasks and qualifications

The successful candidate will be responsible for driving innovation across several key research areas:

• Conduct innovative research on the formation and stability of electrochemical interfaces in sulfur cathodes
• Develop and evaluate functional surface modifications to enhance electrochemical performance and durability
• Utilize advanced analytical and characterization techniques to study materials structure, chemistry, and performance relationships.
• Contribute to the design of experimental setups for in situ and operando studies, working in collaboration with internal and external research partners.

What we offer

• a full-time position (initially 1 year with possible extension) in a world-class research environment
• a stimulating, interdisciplinary environment within the vibrant scientific community of the Max Planck Institute
• access to cutting-edge infrastructure, including advanced electrochemical and structural characterization tools
• remuneration according to TVöD-Bund up to pay group E13
• conditions and social benefits of the public sector
• compatibility of family and career (e.g. company Kindergarten)
• subsidy for the job ticket
• canteen, with an offer of meat, vegetarian and vegan dishes
• outdoor sports facilities on campus

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

The position is available starting from 01.12.2025 for a period of 12 months with possible extension. The accepted candidate will work in the group led by Dr. Evgeny Senokos (https://www.mpikg.mpg.de/6861846/sulgenesis).

Please submit your application by online-application-management-tool, with attached PDF versions of your CV including a publication list, a short motivation letter containing your skills and experiences related to the position, and 2 references.

For further information about the Institute see https://www.mpikg.mpg.de/en.