Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Department of Applied Physics
Institute:
Aalto University
Country:
Finland
Research Field:
physics, materials science, chemical engineering
Posted Date:
Mar 30, 2026
Deadline:
Apr 17, 2026
Offer Period:
2 Years
Offer Start Date:
NA
Postdoc Position in Mechanistic Interface Science for Lithium-based Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis
Project Description:
- We are now looking for a postdoctoral researcher to lead the development of an advanced and correlative characterization workflow for lithium deposition and solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) analysis in lithium-mediated nitrogen reduction reaction (LiNRR) systems for green ammonia synthesis at Aalto University’s Department of Applied Physics. In this position, you will have a chance to make an impact by establishing reliable, multimodal methods that connect interphase chemistry and morphology to electrochemical performance, stability, and degradation mechanisms. Join us in shaping the future of advanced electrochemical interface science!
- LiNRR is a highly dynamic electrochemical process where Li plating/stripping, SEI formation, electrolyte/proton-source reactions. These co-evolve and directly influence ammonia formation and energy efficiency. This position targets the core bottleneck: turning complex, sensitive interphases into measurable, interpretable mechanisms through operando and in-situ observation and correlative analysis. Alternative mediated systems other than lithium will also be investigated. Your work will also build transferable capability for other lithium and battery-relevant interfacial processes.
- This postdoctoral position is funded through a recent M-Era.Net project “Ammonia Production via Electrochemical Reduction of Nitrogen” and the project partners also includes SINTEF, Solvenian National Institute of Chemistry, as well as industrial partners - NitroVolt and NanoScientifica.
Key responsibilities include:
- Build a correlative characterization and analysis workflow for Li deposition and SEI evolution, integrating structural and chemical information at various length- and timescales.
- Perform operando and post-mortem characterization to obtain mechanistic understanding of Li deposition and SEI evolution. A toolkit of morphological, strucutral and chemical analysis techniques will be used, including: cryo-FIB/SEM, cryo-TEM, in-situ and liquid-cell TEM, EC-AFM, XCT, SAXS, XAS, XRS, XPS, etc.
- Correlate materials characterization results with electrochemical kinetics analysis and computational insights for mechanistic interpretation of LiNRR and beyond-Li NRR.
- Collaborate with the project partners and support their research activities in this project
- Support other electrochemical studies (e.g., batteries) within the group
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- Has a PhD in physics, materials science, chemical engineering, or a closely related field
- Experienced in electrochemical ammonia synthesis, preferrably LiNRR
- Strong background in electrochemical interfaces and/or advanced materials characterization
- Hands-on experience in one or more of the following:In situ/operando spectroscopy (incl. operando
- FTIR, Raman, and X-ray spectroscopy)
- AFM and/or 3D imaging (e.g., XCT)
- Cryo-FIB/SEM and cryo-STEM & liquid-cell TEM
- Experienced in glovebox workflows and controlled sample transfer
- Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary environment
- EN: Fluency in English is required (spoken and written).
Preferred Qualification:
- FI: Finnish language is not required; proficiency is considered an advantage.
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- The position is full-time and funded for two years.
Benefits:
- A meaningful and inspiring research environment in a university ranked among the world’s best in sustainability and materials science
- Access to world-class research infrastructure in the EMI group and at Aalto’s Nanomicroscopy Center, including state-of-the-art EC-AFM, analytical STEM, cryo-EM, liquid cell TEM, SAXS, etc.
- The chance to collaborate with experts across electrochemistry, nanomaterials, and advanced energy solutions
- Support for professional development, including training, international conferences, and career coaching
- A vibrant, international campus community in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, consistently ranked as one of the happiest and safest places to live worldwide
- The salary range for this position is approximately 4130–4550 €/month, depending on experience, and includes occupational healthcare.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- CV
- motivation letter
How to apply:
- To apply, please share your CV and motivation letter as one single PDF document in English with us through our recruitment site ("Apply now!”) latest at 23.59pm (EEST/UTC +3) April 17th, 2026.
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
- Aalto University is where science and art meet technology and business. We shape a sustainable future by making research breakthroughs in and across our disciplines, sparking the game changers of tomorrow and creating novel solutions to major global challenges. Our community is made up of 13 000 students, 400 professors and close to 4 500 other faculty and staff working on our dynamic campus in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, Finland. Diversity is part of who we are, and we actively work to ensure our community’s diversity and inclusiveness. This is why we warmly encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to join our community.
- At the Department of Applied Physics, our pioneering research in physical sciences creates important industrial applications that hold great technological potential. Our research focuses on Materials physics, Quantum technology, Soft & living matter, and Advanced energy solutions. Topics extend from fundamental research to important applications. We educate future generations of research and development professionals, data specialists, technology experts, inventors, and scientists for industry and society.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a postdoctoral position?
Postdoctoral positions are open to candidates who have completed a PhD or will complete their doctoral degree before the start date. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the funding scheme and host institution.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most postdoctoral positions are open to international applicants. Visa sponsorship and work permit support are usually provided by the host institution, subject to local regulations.
Is prior postdoctoral experience required?
In most cases, prior postdoctoral experience is not mandatory. However, candidates with relevant research experience beyond the PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
What is the typical duration of a postdoctoral contract?
Postdoctoral contracts typically range from six months to three years, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability and performance.
Are teaching responsibilities included?
Teaching responsibilities vary by institution and position. Some postdoctoral roles are research-only, while others may include limited teaching or supervision duties.
Can I apply for multiple postdoctoral positions?
Yes. Candidates are encouraged to apply for multiple suitable postdoctoral positions to increase their chances of selection.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.