Descripción de la oferta
Description: The Nanoionics and Fuel Cells Group is looking for a passionate MSc graduate to join a transformative PhD project in accelerated materials discovery for energy applications , within the strategic initiative DIREXTE. The research will focus on complex oxide materials for solid‑state batteries and SOFCs, leveraging combinatorial synthesis and high‑throughput structural and electrochemical characterization to explore vast and unexplored compositional spaces. In the initial phase, the PhD candidate will drive high‑throughput experimental workflows that push the pace of discovery far beyond conventional laboratory practice. As the project advances, they will take an active role in designing and commissioning a pioneering Self‑Driving Lab, a next‑generation autonomous research platform that will integrate Machine Learning and Bayesian optimization to accelerate materials innovation through AI‑guided experimentation. This position offers a unique opportunity to help build the scientific tools of the future while contributing to breakthrough advances in electrochemical energy technologies. The candidate will join a vibrant group with strong international collaborations and an ambition to redefine how materials are discovered. We seek a creative, proactive, experimentally driven researcher who is excited to contribute to the emerging field of autonomous science. Qualifications and experience required (at the moment of start): Essential: The call is open to candidates of any nationality fulfilling the following criteria: Hold a MSc in Physics, Materials Science, Materials Chemistry or related areas. Fluent in English Preferred: · Hands‑on experience in experimental materials science, especially synthesis or characterization of oxide materials. · Interest in electrochemistry, solid‑state ionics, high‑throughput experimentation and data‑driven research methodologies. · Basic familiarity with Python, data analysis or machine‑learning concepts (active learning, Bayesian optimization). · Motivation to work with emerging automated/robotic tools and to participate in the development of new research infrastructures. · Good communication skills and ability to explain complex scientific ideas to colleagues from different backgrounds. · Experience in collaborative or interdisciplinary research projects. Personal Skills: Team worker Initiative in research and innovation Flexibility Results-oriented Analytical and synthesis capabilities Required documents: Applicants must submit the following documents by email to and Reference: - Curriculum Vitae, specifying the completed degree and any relevant professional experience. - BSc and MSc transcripts. - Motivation letter explaining interest in the project and fit with the position. Offer of job position: We offer a 36‑month PhD scholarship framed within the strategic project DIREXTE. Salaries will follow IREC’s salary policy , adjusted to the candidate’s qualifications and experience. The expected starting date is May–July 2026 .
