Molecular simulations of metal ion coordination for recycling of spent batteries

A fully-funded PhD position in molecular simulation in the team of Prof. Tiffany Walsh is available at Deakin University in the Institute for Frontier Materials, Geelong, starting as soon as possible. This is a 100% computational project.

In this project, molecular dynamics simulations will be used to provide practical guidance into experimental strategies to recover metals from spent batteries. Simulations will be used to predict the coordination environment of different battery-relevant metal species in complex liquid environments, which can be challenging to identify on the basis of experimental efforts alone. The outcomes of the project will complement a parallel experimental programme that is underway, led by Dr Pozo-Gonzalo, and will provide practical guidance into the next experimental steps to realise the overall goals of the work.

We are looking for candidates with a strong background in physical chemistry and a strong undergraduate degree in Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Physics or similar, preferably with experience in molecular simulation or computational chemistry.

Excellent communication skills, including a strong command of both written and verbal English, is an essential requirement – as a minimum, applicants must meet a IELTS level of 6.5 or more overall, with no individual score below 6.

Applicants are encouraged to contact Prof Walsh as soon as possible at [Email Address Removed].