A full-time position is available at the University of Agder, Faculty of Engineering and Sciences as a researcher for continuum modelling and simulation of lithium-ion batteries, affiliated to the Department of Engineering Science. The position is located, at the present, at the Battery Research Center (BRC) at Campus Grimstad. The starting date is negotiable with the Faculty.
The position is connected to the subject area of UiAs battery initiative which co-creates a competence hub for lithium-ion battery research and development in close exchange and collaboration with local industry partners in the south of Norway.
The position is partially funded by external funds from local industry partners, Competence Fund for Southern Norway and Aust-Agder Development and Competence. The project started in January 2022 and has a temporary financing for five (5) years. The researcher is expected to actively contribute to attract external funding to the research project, both for her/his own position and other positions from the Research Council of Norway, EU and other Sources. Without further external funding beyond the original project scope (December 2026) the basis for the position ceases. The law on Government employees etc. regarding termination of employment and preferential rights will be applied.
Lithium-ion batteries represent the leading technology for electric vehicle applications and various electronic devices. However, issues like lithium plating, particle cracking, and solvent depletion contribute to battery lifespan limitations. These challenges are accelerated at both low (artic conditions) and high temperatures particularly in large format cells where uneven lithium storage and thermal gradients are prevalent, leading to complex feedback mechanisms. At the battery coast, one of our primary objectives is to develop models elucidating these phenomena and to employ reverse engineering strategies at the electrode level to optimize battery performance at the cell level.
The successful candidate will develop a comprehensive dynamic model for batteries with different compositions. This entails adapting and refining existing electrochemical models like the P2D Newman model to incorporate pertinent degradation mechanisms and thermal influences. Through detail modeling, the candidate will investigate the dynamic operation of these batteries ensuring optimal performance at different operating conditions. The successful candidate will analyze the performance of the cells during fast charging and long-term cycling to identify critical model parameters affecting the dynamic operation of the cells. Additionally, the successful candidate will conduct parametric and sensitivity analysis at multiple levels including electrode and cell levels to determine the necessary protocols to achieve predefined targets. During this process, the successful candidate will consider all relevant aspects related to battery dynamic behavior and optimization, encompassing emerging cell degradation phenomena such as electrolyte depletion, thermal runaway, and active material dissolution, within the model. The candidate will contribute to the development of the growing research activity in battery simulation and lithium-ion batteries. The candidate should be self-motivated and enthusiastic as well as contributing to the future research directions of the battery activities.
The researcher has no teaching duties, but supervision of bachelor, master students and PhD candidates could be assigned when this is a natural part of the research activity of the research group.
The researcher may participate in committee work and other administrative tasks within the University of Agder.
The position is remunerated according to the State Salary Scale, salary plan 90.400, code 1108 Researcher, NOK 550 000 – 625 000, or code 1109 Researcher, NOK 616 000 – 700 000 gross salary per year. A compulsory pension contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund is deducted from the pay according to current statutory provisions.
UiA is an open and inclusive university. We believe that diversity enriches the workplace and makes us better. We, therefore, encourage qualified candidates to apply for the position independent of gender, age, cultural background, disability or an incomplete CV.
The successful applicant will have rights and obligations in accordance with the current regulations for the position, and organisational changes and changes in the duties and responsibilities of the position must be expected. The engagement is to be made in accordance with the regulations in force concerning the acts relating to Control of Export of Strategic Goods, Services and Technology. Appointment is made by the University of Agder’s Appointments Committee for Teaching and Research Positions.
Short-listed applicants will be invited for interview. With the applicant’s permission, UiA will also conduct a reference check before appointment. Read more about the employment process.
In accordance with the Freedom of Information Act § 25 (2), applicants may request that they are not identified in the open list of applicants. The University, however, reserves the right to publish the names of applicants. Applicants will be advised of the University’s intention to exercise this right.
The application and any necessary information about education and experience (including diplomas and certificates) are to be sent electronically. Use the link "Apply for this job".
The following documentation must be uploaded electronically:
The applicant is fully responsible for submitting complete digital documentation before the closing date. All documentation must be available in a Scandinavian language or English.
Application deadline: 10.05.24
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The University was officially established in 2007, but has a history dating back to 1839, and was formerly known as Agder University College.
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