Postdoc Analysis of Non-Metallic Content and its Impact on Downstream Recycling of Li-ion Batteries

TU Delft; Delft; On-site; EUR 60.000 - 80.000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technical university in the Netherlands is seeking a Postdoc to join their team focused on optimizing Li-ion battery recycling processes. The successful candidate will have a PhD in chemistry or materials science and contribute to advancing circularity in battery production. Responsibilities include investigating methods for impurity removal and collaborating with industry partners. A competitive salary package is offered, with a full-time commitment expected.

Qualifications

• Proficient in scientific writing and technical presentations.
• Motivated researcher with interest in battery recycling.

Responsibilities

• Investigate purification and separation methods for impurity removal.
• Optimize key process parameters for black mass treatment.

Skills

Lab experience in materials characterization

Skills in analytical chemistry

Strong communication skills in English

Ability to collaborate with teams

Education

PhD in chemistry, materials science, or related field

Job description

Postdoc Analysis of Non-Metallic Content and its Impact on Downstream Recycling of Li-ion Batteries

Join the Materials Production, Refining and Recycling (MPRR) group in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) at TU Delft and contribute to advancing battery circularity by optimizing the recovery of critical raw materials in the hydrometallurgical recycling of Li-ion batteries.

Responsibilities

• Investigate purification and separation methods to understand mechanisms for impurity removal (e.g., Cu, Al, Fe) and for better recovery of Co, Ni, and Mn.
• Identify and optimize key process parameters for black mass treatment in close collaboration with industry partners.

Background

Batteries are essential for decarbonizing transport and enabling renewable energy storage, yet their widespread use presents a growing waste-management challenge. Recycling spent batteries is key to recovering valuable materials and improving the sustainability of the battery value chain. Hydrometallurgical recycling is particularly suitable to handle the complex and variable composition of industrial Li-ion waste streams. However, it must become more efficient and sustainable, while achieving higher purity and recovery rates to meet EU regulatory targets.

This project is part of the CRM Lion project, which is part of the national program for Material Independence & Circular Batteries, supporting the development of Li-ion battery recycling industry in the Netherlands.

Job Requirements

• Has obtained (or is about to defend) a PhD in chemistry, materials science, physical chemistry, physics, or a related field.
• Is a highly motivated and enthusiastic researcher with lab experience and skills in materials characterization and analytical chemistry. Prior experience in Li-ion battery recycling is advantageous.
• Strong communication skills in English, including proficiency in scientific writing (reports, papers) and technical presentations.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and willingness to collaborate with academic and industrial partners.
• Is available to start as soon as possible.

Application Procedure

• Cover (motivation) letter
• Detailed CV
• A copy or link to your PhD thesis or selected papers
• Contact details of 2-3 references

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Salaries and Working Hours

Salaries: €3,546 – €5,538 per month. Working hours: 36–40 hours per week, full‑time.

Other Information

Expected starting period is early 2026.

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