The INM research group Structure Formation is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to work on 2D and 3D reconstruction of battery materials to derive structure-property relationships of those, within the QC-Next Call funded by the BMBFTR Ministry of Germany.

Project Description:

Batteries are a vital component of many daily life devices and electric vehicles. Their performance depends heavily on the microstructure of the electrodes. While huge progress has been made to increase energy density, a full picture of the responsible microstructure is still lacking. FIB-SEM is a powerful tool that allows the investigation of 2D images of these materials. However, low contrast between the raw materials, high computational requirements, and the need for image analysis and interpretation slow the adoption of this technique as a standard measurement procedure.

This project aims to develop a standardized workflow for the analysis of complex battery materials via FIB-SEM segmentation and reconstruction. This workflow is used to create a database containing microstructural metrics and their impact on the material performance. Both are used to support quantum-based analysis methods for a more efficient and reliable analysis of FIB-SEM data. The successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary consortium of other research institutions and companies.

At the INM – Leibniz Institute for New Materials, commercial and self-designed battery materials will be used to analyze their microstructure. Promising methods for increasing contrast will be explored and evaluated to produce images of the highest possible quality. Segmentation and reconstruction methods will be applied and compared to novel quantum-based approaches.

Your Tasks:

• Prepare electrode materials using established processes.
• Characterize the microstructure of electrode materials using FIB-SEM.
• Apply and develop 2D segmentation and 3D reconstruction algorithms.
• Explore different methods to increase contrast between light elements.
• Correlate structure–property relationships using microstructural metrics.
• Develop mechanistic concepts of composite conductivity based on your results.
• Publishing results in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conferences.
• Supervise and support graduate and undergraduate students.

Your Profile:

• Very good PhD in materials science, physics, or a similar discipline.
• Track record (publications) in conductive composite materials (batteries or other).
• Experience with SEM and/or FIB is mandatory.
• Strong experimental skills, laboratory precision, and data management abilities.
• Proven publication record in high-quality journals.
• Interest in quantum-based technologies.
• Very good communication skills (written and spoken) in English.

Beneficial:

• Programming skills or willingness to learn.
• Experience with digital materials science, data organization, and storage.
• Practical experience with TEM techniques.

We Offer:

• A 3-year E13 TV-L 100% contract starting 1st of October 2026.
• A dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment with excellent, state-of-the-art infrastructure.
• A cooperative, friendly and supportive environment, with plenty of opportunities to interact with other researchers.
• Opportunities for scientific training, conference participation, and career development.

Applications will be accepted until 31 July 2026.

How to Apply:

Please send us the following documents through the online application system:

• Motivation letter
• CV (max 2 pages)
• Publication list (if available)
• Academic transcripts (B.Sc., M.Sc. and PhD)
• Contact details of 2-3 references

For more information on the institute, please see: https://www.leibniz-inm.de/en/

The INM practices an open and appreciative corporate culture in which the existing diversity is promoted and lived. The institute is an equal opportunity employer with a certified family-friendly policy, and it provides offers for a better work-life balance, flextime, and mobile working. We promote professional opportunities for women and strongly encourage them to apply. Full-time jobs can be generally divided. People with disabilities are expressly encouraged to apply and will be given priority if equally qualified.