Postdoctoral Researcher in Thermal Energy Storage Materials

We are looking for a motivated candidate to join the project investigating PILs for their potential application as LHTES materials. The work is carried out at the Department of Energy Technology in the Fuel and Air Emission Analysis Research Group.

To provide broad fundamental knowledge on the amine-based PILs, the main activities are:

• Synthesis of PILs.
• Encapsulation/form stabilization of PILs.
• Characterization of materials using relevant techniques.
• Analysis and modelling of measured data.
• Correlating the data.
• Reporting of scientific results.

A fixed-term employment contract for 2 years will be concluded with the selected candidate, and starting time of the contract is by agreement.

CONTEXT OF THE PROJECT

Latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) is a subclass of thermal energy storage (TES) which is a critical technology for improving the efficiency and reliability of renewable energy systems. Ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are materials that can be used for LHTES because they have several advantageous properties over conventional LHTES materials, including low volatility and high thermal stability.

Another advantage of these materials is their tunability. This, however, requires knowledge/availability of the properties and tools for evaluation of these properties.

The postdoctoral researcher position will focus on the study of the properties of protic ionic liquids (PILs) and DESs, including their interactions with solid matrices. The project is expected to provide physicochemical properties of these materials and their dependence on PIL structure, applicability of PILs considering their physicochemical properties as well as toxicity, corrosivity and stability along with the impact of solid materials on their performance.

PhD, preferably in Chemical Engineering (alternatively Chemistry or Materials Science)

Skills/Qualifications

• A track record of publications in reputable journals and conferences.
• Preferably have a list of competitive grants or fellowships.
• Ability to work independently, formulate research questions and solve complex problems without constant guidance.
• Able to identify gaps and propose innovative solutions to research questions.

The candidate is expected to:

• Have experience in synthesis of ILs.
• Have experience in the analysis of ILs using the following methods NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, GC (MS, headspace analysis), viscometry, etc.
• Have a strong background in the Python programming language, preferably also in machine learning methods.
• Have experience in supervising BSc and MSc students.
• Have a clear vision of their future career path.

In addition, the following general and interpersonal skills are expected:

• Ability to work as a team member and foster positive relationships.
• Strong work ethic, commitment and motivation to pursue research goals.
• Ability to cope with setbacks.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.

To apply for the position, please send the following documents in English by 30.04.2025 at the latest by clicking “Apply Now” on the right:

• A letter of motivation outlining the candidate's research strengths and weaknesses.
• Documents proving that the candidate holds the academic degree required for the position applied for.
• A curriculum vitae including a list of publications and projects.
• An academic portfolio, including a motivated self-evaluation regarding compliance with the requirements for the researcher position set out in the Academic Career Management Regulation, Annex 3 “Academic Evaluation Matrix” (shall be submitted by a university staff member only) or a free format evaluation of the academic activity undertaken so far and the competencies required for work (shall be submitted by an external candidate only).
• Letters of recommendation.
• A certificate of English language proficiency of at least level B2. 
• Any other documents deemed important by the applicant.

Regarding further information on the application documents and recruitment process please contact TalTech HR konkurss@taltech.ee.

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) is the flagship in engineering and IT science and education in Estonia, providing higher education at all levels in engineering and technology, information technology, economics, science, and maritime. TalTech’s mission is to be a promoter of science, technology, and innovation and a leading provider of engineering and economic education in Estonia.

The activities of the Department of Energy Technology include chemical engineering, environmental engineering, thermal engineering, thermal power plants, heat economy and thermal energy.

The offered postdoctoral position is in the Fuel and Air Emission Analysis Research Group led by Associate Professor Oliver Järvik. The research group is working in the field of the analysis/characterization of solid and liquid materials utilizing WD-XRF, DSC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, TGA-MS, elemental analysis, rheometry etc.

The following conditions and financial support are guaranteed for 2 years:

• Full-time position with a basic salary of up to €3,000 per month (gross), depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
• Annual holiday of 42 days per year.
• Option to participate in other project applications and projects.
• In addition, funding is provided for training and networking activities.