The Instituto de Tecnología Química (ITQ CSIC-UPV) is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join its research activities in advanced materials for sustainable energy technologies. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of next-generation thermal batteries based on thermochemical energy storage (TCES), aiming to provide efficient, cost-effective and scalable solutions for long-duration energy storage and renewable energy integration. The research will focus on the design and development of advanced redox-active metal oxides capable of reversibly storing and releasing thermal energy through high-temperature chemical reactions. The PhD project will combine fundamental materials research with applied engineering, including:
- Materials development: Design and synthesis of advanced metal oxides, including perovskite-based materials, for high-temperature thermochemical energy storage.
- Advanced characterization: Investigation of structural, chemical and morphological properties using techniques such as XRD, electron microscopy and thermal analysis.
- Thermochemical performance: Evaluation of energy storage capacity, redox kinetics, cyclability and long-term stability.
- Reactor development: Contribution to the design, optimization and testing of experimental thermal energy storage systems.
- Mechanistic understanding: Investigation of structure–property relationships governing reversible oxygen exchange and energy storage performance.
Candidate Profile
Applicants should hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics or a closely related discipline.
Desirable qualifications
- Background in inorganic materials synthesis and characterization.
- Knowledge of thermodynamics, reaction engineering or solid-state chemistry.
- Experience with high-temperature experimental techniques.
- Interest in renewable energy technologies and energy storage.
- Good communication skills in English.
- Motivation to pursue independent research in an international and multidisciplinary environment.
What We Offer
- A fully funded PhD position (3 years) at ITQ (UPV–CSIC), a leading research institute in materials chemistry, catalysis and energy technologies.
- A multidisciplinary research environment with access to advanced synthesis, characterization and testing facilities.
- Opportunities for international collaborations, scientific publications and participation in international conferences.
- Training in advanced materials development, thermochemical processes and experimental reactor technologies.
- A doctoral research project combining fundamental scientific challenges with applications in the energy transition.
Location: Valencia, Spain
Contract duration: 3 years, with possibility of extension for a 4th year
Expected starting date: January 2027
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a CV, a brief motivation letter and academic transcripts to:
Dr. Alfonso J. Carrillo
Instituto de Tecnología Química, Valencia, Spain
Contact: [contact details available in the full listing]
Application deadline: 15/11/2026
Requirements
- Research Field: Chemistry » Other
- Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
- Languages: English — Level: Excellent
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available: 1
- Company/Institute: ITQ (CSIC-UPV)
- Country: Spain
- City: Valencia
- Street: Av. de los Naranjos s/n
- Postal Code: 46022
