Postdoctoral Researcher

and rare-earth element (REE) recovery , thermodynamic modeling , and materials characterization to join a cutting-edge research team. The project focuses on developing sustainable and optimized processes for vanadium extraction and purification , with the goal of enabling large-scale redox flow battery deployment for energy storage. Scope of Work The successful candidate will work on: Designing and optimizing extraction processes for vanadium from primary and secondary sources (e.g., slags and industrial wastes). Developing purification pathways to produce battery-grade vanadium for energy storage applications. Applying thermodynamic modeling tools (CALPHAD, FactSage) to simulate vanadium phase behavior and guide process improvements. Performing advanced characterization of vanadium-bearing materials to understand their transformation and recovery mechanisms. Evaluating environmental sustainability via Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and techno-economic analysis. Contributing to the integration of vanadium flows within a circular economy model for battery materials. Key Responsibilities Development and optimization of hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical vanadium recovery strategies. Advanced thermodynamic simulation using CALPHAD-based methods , including phase equilibrium modeling in multi-component systems. Comprehensive use of characterization tools, including: SEM, TEM, HAADF-STEM, XRD , and EDS for micro- and nano-scale phase analysis. LA-ICP-MS for ultra-trace elemental quantification. Investigation of impurity phase removal (e.g., Fe, P, Si, REEs). Environmental and economic evaluation of processes via LCA and techno-economic models . Preparation of high-impact publications and contribution to collaborative proposals. Support of graduate student mentorship and lab coordination. Required Qualifications & Experience PhD in Materials Chemistry, Extractive Metallurgy, or Chemical Engineering with a focus on resource recovery or battery materials. Research experience in metal recovery from slags or mineral concentrates , including both experimental and computational methodologies. Proven proficiency in thermodynamic modeling using FactSage, CALPHAD , and complementary simulation platforms like Aspen Plus . In-depth knowledge of electron microscopy , spectroscopy, and structural analysis methods for complex materials. Familiarity with REE and vanadium chemistry , oxidation states, and redox equilibria. Desirable Competences Prior research on critical metals (e.g., V, Ce, La, Nd) in slag systems. Simulation of monazite and rare-earth phosphate precipitation from multi-component melts. Strong background in slag thermochemistry , particularly oxygen fugacity control and partition coefficient modeling . Experience in integrating modeling with leaching and separation processes for scale-up. Advanced data interpretation using electron diffraction, dendritic growth modeling, and REE behavior in Fe-rich matrices. Competences & Personal Qualities Excellent English communication skills (oral and written). Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals. Capable of both independent and collaborative interdisciplinary research. Demonstrated ability to lead sub-projects, mentor students, and contribute to scientific dissemination.