PhD in Multiphysics, multiscale computational material models for batteries

The PhD student position is to be placed at the division of Material and Computational Mechanics. The activities of the division are focused on modeling of the mechanics of structures, components and processes along with the involved materials, thereby providing mechanics-based solutions and virtual solution tools to our engineering challenges. Our main research areas are: Lightweight materials and structures, Multi-phase and metallic materials, Process modeling and simulation, Railway mechanics, and Structural mechanics. The Department of Industrial and Materials Science leads in engineering research, aiming for sustainable technical solutions. Our six divisions conduct top-tier research in collaboration with global universities and industries, and we offer diverse undergraduate and graduate courses. Project description The project deals with multi-scale modeling of multi-physics processes in alkali-metal ion batteries. More specifically, the aim is to develop a framework for simulating the coupled electro-chemo-thermo-mechanical interactions at the level of a battery cell. Consideration of the coupled electro-chemo-mechanical processes will allow for study to the effects of internal (e.g. pressure buildup from swelling) and external loads (e.g. crash or abuse loads) on the electrochemical performance of the cell. At the onset, Li-ion batteries will be studied, but the simulation tool will also be able to investigate other options, such as Na-ion batteries. The project will be a part of COMPEL, COMPetence for the ELectrification of the transport system, a strategic initiative from the Swedish government to strengthen research and education in battery technology. Within COMPEL Chalmers, Lund University and Uppsala University, are responding to the need to ensure the long-term competitiveness of the automotive industry and Sweden as a whole. Research within COMPEL spans the full battery value chain and provides the student with a multidisciplinary network for collaboration. Major responsibilities Your major responsibility as a PhD student is to pursue your own doctoral studies related to the project. The major goal of the project is to develop numerical models for coupled eletro-chemo-thermo-mechanical processes in batteries. This includes the development of multi-physics material models and implementation in a finite element code. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing. Your research activities will contribute to improved knowledge in the scientific field, in particular by presenting your results in scientific journals and at international conferences. In addition to the research project, you will also take courses on the advanced level within the Graduate school of Solid and Structural Mechanics. The position also includes teaching courses within Chalmers' undergraduate level, or performing other duties at the department, corresponding to up to 20 percent of working hours. Qualifications We expect you to have:  • A MSc in Applied Mechanics, Solid Mechanics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Civil Engineering, Engineering Mathematics, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering or similar.  • Documented knowledge in continuum mechanics and FEM (including programming thereof) is required. • Education in numerical analysis and/or (electro-)chemistry is meritorious. • A master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in a relevant field.  • Excellent communication in English Our interdisciplinary team requires you to collaborate with diverse individuals and take full responsibility for your tasks. You must be proactive and capable of working independently when necessary. Contract terms Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years. Read more about doctoral studies at Chalmers here. We offer Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees. Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers. Application procedure The application should be marked with 20240542 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files. CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including: • CV, include complete list of publications • Previous teaching and pedagogical experiences • Two references that we can contact. Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number) 1-3 pages where you: • Introduce yourself • Describe your previous research fields and main research results • Describe your future goals and future research focus Other documents: • Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates. Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Application deadline: 2024-11-17   For questions, please contact: Prof. Fredrik Larsson, Material and Computational Mechanics +46(0)3177219 Prof. Leif Asp, Material and Computational Mechanics +46(0)317721543 *** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***