We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join ERC Proof of Concept project ZEST (Advanced Zn||Br₂–MnO₂ Batteries Enabled by Nanostructured Cathodes and Supramolecular Electrolytes), focused on the development of next-generation sustainable battery technologies for stationary energy storage.
DESCRIPTION
· Research topic: Postdoctoral research in advanced materials and electrochemistry for aqueous Zn-based batteries.
· Research Center: CiQUS (www.usc.es/ciqus/en), University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain).
· Research Supervisor: María Giménez
STARTING DATE
July 2026 onwards (starting date could be flexible)
REQUIREMENTS
· PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
· Previous experience in electrochemistry, batteries, electrocatalysis, or materials science. Experience in battery assembly (coin cells, pouch cells) is a plus. Good communication skills and ability to work in an international team..
FURTHER INFORMATION
The ZEST project aims to develop a hybrid Zn||Br₂–MnO₂ battery for stationary energy storage, addressing the main challenges of current technologies, such as low energy density, limited reversibility, and short cycle life. To achieve this, it proposes innovations in both the cathode and the electrolyte, which will enhance the battery’s stability, safety, and performance, as well as its economic and environmental viability.
The project’s approach integrates advanced active material synthesis, electrolyte optimization, and cell engineering to create a functional prototype that serves as a proof of concept. This prototype will validate the technology and demonstrate its scalability, while also establishing a clear pathway toward commercial exploitation, including market analysis, intellectual property strategy, and collaboration with industrial partners.
In this way, ZEST seeks to mitigate the risks associated with the transition to long-duration energy storage solutions, providing a safe, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative that facilitates large-scale adoption of renewable energy.
ZEST aligns with the ongoing research led by María Giménez and her team at CiQUS-USC, focused on developing advanced materials for more efficient and sustainable energy storage systems such as the recently funded IGNICIA.
The project builds on previous ERC-funded work (StG-NANOCOMP, ERC-POC-ZABCAT) and aims to bridge fundamental research and industrial application, including collaboration with Fraunhofer ISE and industrial stakeholders.
This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a high-impact, translational research environment, contributing to the development of next-generation energy storage technologies aligned with EU Green Deal priorities.
APPLICATION
Applications should be sent to maria.gimenez.lopez [at] usc.es, including a CV, academic record, and the name and e-mail of at least one contacting professor or researcher that might provide a recommendation letter. Please include “Postdoc_ZEST_YourSurname” in the subject line of the email.
DEADLINE
25/05/2026
