PhD Students (m/f/div) in the Field of Battery Technology

Job Description

At the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, one of the 84 institutes of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science, physicists, chemists, and biologists create knowledge of long-term rele­vance to life and basic medical sciences. Currently, our around 270 employees are divided into four de­partments and two Max Planck Research Groups. In addition, the institute is part of the Health + Life Science Alliance Heidelberg Mannheim – an association of the leading life science research institutions in the region.

The Department of Cellular Biophysics (Prof. Dr. Joachim P. Spatz) invites applications for

PhD Students (m/f/div) in the Field of Battery Technology

starting as soon as possible.


The project focuses on the investigation of novel metal fiber-based fleeces to be used as current col­lec­tors for ultra-thick lithium ion battery electrodes, granting access to battery cells with vastly improved energy density. Potential working areas of the candidates can include simulations of the sys­tem, further improving the fleece-based current collectors, developing new types of active materials, and as­semb­ling and testing of battery cells, or a combination thereof.


Candidates should be highly motivated, with a passion for disruptive energy storage technologies, and should have completed (or soon have completed) a master's degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, power engineering, or related fields. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently are crucial for success. Previous experience with assembling and testing of lithium ion battery cells is desirable. The working language of the project group is English.


  • interesting, diversified tasks with self-responsibility
  • flexible working hours
  • highly motivated and interdisciplinary work environment
  • payment based on TVöD guidelines

PhD positions are limited to three years with the possibility of extension.

Candidates can choose between one of several PhD programs at the University of Heidelberg. The work will be carried out at the Max Planck Institutes in Stuttgart.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. A daycare center for children is located near the institute.

View More