Doctoral Student in Energy Sciences - COMPEL with focus on CFD and Data-Driven Modelling of Batteries

Description of the workplace 

Lund University's Department of Energy Sciences is a leading center for research in energy, fluid mechanics, and sustainability.

The Division of Fluid Mechanics at Lund University's Department of Energy Sciences is a distinguished and dynamic research environment, recognized for its cutting-edge contributions to the field of fluid mechanics, particularly in the areas of energy systems and sustainable technologies. Our division prides itself on a collaborative and innovative research culture, where interdisciplinary approaches are actively pursued.

At our division, you will find a diverse team of experts specializing in various aspects of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and multi-physics problems, all working towards developing sustainable solutions for contemporary challenges. Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art computational resources, enabling advanced simulations and modelling. Moreover, we actively engage in collaborations with other leading experts on laser diagnostics, automatic control, heat transfer and life cycle assessment, both nationally and internationally, promoting a network of expertise and innovation.

This position offers a unique chance to be part of a vibrant community that is at the forefront of research in fluid mechanics and its applications in sustainable energy and environmental solutions.

Subject description

COMPEL, "COMPetence for the ELectrification of the transport system", is a strategic initiative by the Swedish government, aimed at strengthening research and educational environments within battery technology and electrification. Within COMPEL, the three institutions - Chalmers University of Technology, Lund University, and Uppsala University – in consultation with Swedish industry, deepen their collaboration with the aim of strengthening Sweden's position in battery technology contributing to the electrification of the transport sector, and related areas. The three institutions aim to enhance research and education in the battery sector to ensure strong research in battery technology supporting that electrification of the transport sector is maintained and further developed in Sweden. Research within COMPEL spans the entire battery value chain: materials research, research on new cell concepts and cell manufacturing, battery systems and system integration, recycling, and safety.

At Lund University with the Faculty of Engineering (LTH), COMPEL is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing research environments in battery technology and electrification, in a manner that complements relevant research at other institutions and builds on our strengths. COMPEL at Lund University initially includes researchers from ten departments, and three areas of research have been identified for strategic development: materials research, integration of batteries with power electronics, and safe energy storage. On the educational side, the number of students in several of the Master programs is being increased, and the course offerings related to battery technology and electrification are being strengthened.

Work duties

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research team for a project focused on enhancing battery safety through advanced modeling techniques. The objective of the project is to develop detailed models to better understand and mitigate thermal events in batteries. The successful applicant will employ computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and data-driven methods, such as machine learning, to study thermal runaway, venting processes, and the microscale mechanisms that can lead to battery failure. This research aims to significantly improve the predictive capabilities of battery management systems and ensure the stability and integrity of battery components.

Detailed description of the work duties, such as:

• Conduct CFD simulations to analyze thermal runaway and venting processes in batteries.
• Investigate and characterize the mechanisms that precipitate battery failure.
• Examine interfaces between battery components to assess their impact on stability and integrity.
• Apply machine learning to enhance battery safety models from a microscale perspective. 
• Integrate microscale analysis with data-driven models to improve predictive capabilities of battery management systems.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and contribute to academic publications and presentations.
• Participate in conferences and workshops to disseminate research findings.
• Engaging in teaching and other departmental duties as required (no more than 20%).

The doctoral student is expected to work independently as well as in close collaboration with other researchers connected to the project. Close collaboration will occur with the research group at the Department of Physics, Lund University, which will work on the experimental investigation of battery cells in thermal runaway.

Admission requiremens

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if the applicant:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Energy Sciences if the applicant has:

• at least 90 credits in the subject of the third cycle programme,  of which at least 60 credits are from second-cycle courses of relevance to the subject and 30 credits from a second-cycle degree project of relevance to the subject
• a Master's degree of relevance to the field

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Strong modelling skills.
• Demonstrable experience in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to conduct independent research.

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following: 

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study. 
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills.
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:

• Knowledge and practical experience in data-driven methods, such as machine learning
• Knowledge of Li-ion batteries
• Knowledge in chemistry and reaction kinetics in the gas phase
• A track record of published research in relevant scientific journals is advantageous.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary research teams.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University. 

Terms of employment 

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

Welcome to apply!