PhD Position – Physics-Based Battery Modelling, Parameterisation and Validation

At the Institute of Energy Technologies – Fundamentals of Electrochemistry (IET-1), we conduct research on highly topical issues relating to the energy transition and structural change. For example, we are working on the battery of the future and researching novel battery concepts. Another exciting project we are working on is how to turn the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO₂) from a climate killer into a raw material of the future. The aim of our research and development work is to develop cost-effective batteries, fuel cells and electrolysers with improved energy and power density, longer service life and maximum safety! Hydrogen production based on renewable energy sources using high- and low-temperature electrolysis is becoming increasingly important for us. Find out more about .

Your Job

You will develop, parameterise and validate physics-based battery models, initially focusing on test cells investigated under controlled laboratory conditions. Your work will combine different types of experimental data to establish reliable methods for identifying physically meaningful model parameters and assessing model accuracy under dynamic operating conditions. In a later stage, the developed approaches will also be evaluated using available operating data from electric vehicles.

Your responsibilities will include:

Further developing physics-based electrochemical battery models for dynamic charging and discharging applications, including impedance-capable and multi-particle model structures
Developing systematic parameterisation methods by combining time-domain measurements with frequency-domain data from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
Performing laboratory battery measurements using battery test equipment, including assembling and connecting test cells using the required laboratory tools
Applying parameter estimation and optimisation methods, supported by sensitivity and identifiability analyses
Parameterising and validating battery models using test-cell measurements and quantifying their accuracy under different operating conditions and dynamic load profiles
Processing and analysing experimental and time-series data and investigating the transferability of laboratory-based parameterisation methods to available electric-vehicle operating data
Documenting and publishing the scientific results and presenting them at project meetings and conferences
Collaborating closely with researchers working on battery experiments, battery ageing and model-based charging strategies

Your Profile

A university Master’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrochemistry, physics, applied mathematics, computational engineering or a related discipline
Sound knowledge of numerical modelling and physics-based battery modelling
Experience in scientific programming and numerical simulation using MATLAB and/or Python, as well as in processing and analysing experimental data
Practical experience with laboratory battery test equipment and with assembling and connecting test cells is a must
Experience with parameter estimation, mathematical optimisation, sensitivity analysis or identifiability analysis is highly desirable
Knowledge of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and a strong interest in combining physical modelling with experimental measurements are advantageous
Strong analytical skills and a structured, independent and solution-oriented approach to scientific work, together with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative and international project environment
Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the ), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level. Knowledge of the German language is not mandatory but certainly appreciated

Our Benefits for You

Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
Networking & Exchange: You will participate in (international) conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network
Work-life balance: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
Annual Leave: You get 30 days of annual leave
Knowledge & Development: Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through training and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral candidates and with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor
Health & well-being: Your health is important to us. You can look forward to a comprehensive company health management programme with a wide range of options, including a beach volleyball court, running groups, yoga classes and much more. In addition, our company medical service and an experienced social counselling team are available to assist you on site
Fair remuneration: Depending on your qualifications and assigned responsibilities, you will be classified according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year-end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary, as well as capital-forming benefits. All information about the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the (pay scale table on page 66 ff. of the PDF download)
Fixed-term: The position is limited to 3 years
Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more:

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: and on specific support options for women:

Place of Employment: Jülich

**Start Date:**To the next possible date

Salary: Pay group 13 (75%) TVöD-Bund

Application Deadline: 2026-09-01

Index number: 2026D-0657