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: [email protected] Application deadline: 15/11/2026

📌 PhD Position – Development of Advanced Thermal Batteries for Energy Storage (España)
🏢 Instituto De Tecnología Química (Csic-Upv)
📍 España