Postdoctoral Associate

Job Summary

The Toney research group at the University of Colorado Boulder has an opening for a Postdoctoral Scholar for research in the understanding of electrified interfaces. This position will involve in situ X-ray scattering and absorption spectroscopy for understanding the underlying chemistry and physics of the cathode-electrolyte interface in next-generation batteries. This position will be involving a collaboration with the Army Research Lab (K Xu and O Boridin). The processes that occur at cathode-electrolyte interfaces are poorly understood which limits our ability to develop strategies to stabilize these interfaces under strongly oxidizing conditions. To tackle this challenge, we will combine molecular-scale modeling with advanced x-ray spectroscopic and electrochemical characterization using model, thin-film, transition-metal oxide (TMO) electrodes, and high purity electrolytes. The project will involve the development and use of in situ and ex situ synchrotron x-ray methods to characterize the structural and chemical behavior of the interface before, during, and after reaction layer formation. These can be supplemented with electron microscopies, taking advantage of the new cryo-TEM facilities at SLAC. This is a two-year appointment, with a possible extension to three years, available to begin immediately.
The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

The Toney Research Group focuses on incisively characterizing and understanding the physics and chemistry that underlie the functioning of materials for sustainable energy as well as synthesis pathways. We focus on energy storage, solar materials, hydrogen storage, and materials and process to address clean water challenges, and use X-ray and neutron scattering, together with X-ray spectroscopy and imaging often operando and in situ. The insight gained enables the rationale design and control of properties, performance, and synthesis pathways and can enable the creation of a road map to the development and discovery of next-generation materials and processes.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Conduct research in interfacial electrochemistry for Li-ion batteries.

What We Can Offer

$55,000.

Benefits

The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits , including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder .

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What We Require

• Ph.D. in physics, materials sciences, chemistry, or related fields.
• Experience with synchrotron X-ray scattering, or X-ray absorption spectroscopy or electron microscopies.
• Experience with energy storage chemistries.

What You Will Need

• Strong experimental, analytical, and computation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work and communicate optimally with a diverse population; good interpersonal skills are essential.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter
3. 1 Letter of Recommendation (Not Confidential)

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs .

Posting Contact Information

Posting Contact Name: Boulder Campus Human Resources

Posting Contact Email: Recruiting@colorado.edu