About POLiS

POLiS investigates new battery materials and technology concepts for the efficient and sustainable storage of electrical energy that no longer require the use of lithium. Within POLiS, we develop electrode materials and electrolytes that enable powerful and sustainable systems based on Na, Mg, Zn, Ca, Al, and Cl ions. POLiS is a joint project of Ulm University and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology with the associated partners Justus Liebig University Gießen and ZSW Ulm. It is currently funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) until the end of 2025 with 6.5 Mio. € annually.

Call for applications

Both international and German early career researchers who work on post-lithium batteries or related topics and who look for a stimulating and excellent environment to pursue their research ideas are invited to apply now for one of two available positions in the POLiS Junior Research Group Application Program (JuRaGAP). Application deadline is May 31, 2022.

What is the JuRaGAP?

The POLiS JuRaAGAP provides early career researchers with the opportunity to raise funding for and establish a third-party funded junior research group in the Cluster. Participants spend two years as a postdoc at one of the partner universities (Ulm University, KIT, JLU Gießen) while preparing the proposal for their junior research group. Funding includes the position of the participant, a budget for supplies and travel, and initial funding for small investments. Participants are expected to complete an application for a high-profile junior research group through programs such as Emmy Noether, European Research Council Starting Grant, German Federal Ministry of Research (BMBF) or similar. The program provides all participants with individual support in their career development as well as in preparing their proposal. 

Who can apply?

Candidates who apply for a position in the POLiS JuRaAGAP must have

• completed their doctorate/PhD, allowing sufficient time to apply for a specific JRGL program (Emmy Noether, ERC starting grant etc.),
• a promising research idea in the research field of POLiS,
• a strong scientific record of achievement (measured in relation to their career level), including publications in peer-reviewed international scientific journals, that qualifies them for a leadership position,
• a proven track record of international research experience,
  willingness to take on responsibility and develop their skills and personality as a researcher,
• analytical and project management skills,
• excellent communication and language skills in English and a highly cooperative working style.

Preference is given to candidates who have no affiliation with any of the participating organizations in POLiS.

Program benefits

• The establishment of a junior research group at the Cluster is an important step on your career path towards a professorship.
• Program participants will be part of an excellent research environment for carrying out their research ideas.
• Ulm University, KIT, and JLU Gießen provide excellent support and professional skills training, and experienced members of the Cluster will provide scientific mentoring and administrative support.
• The Cluster provides individual support in writing a successful proposal for a third-party funded junior research group.

How to apply?

Please submit your application using the website form (https://www.postlithiumstorage.org/en/career-support/juragap) and upload the following documents at the end of the form. Please note that we only consider your application after you provide us with all requested information.

• Filled application form (https://www.postlithiumstorage.org/en/career-support/juragap).
• Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages).
• List of peer-reviewed publications.
• Description of your research idea addressing the planned work of the junior research group (https://www.postlithiumstorage.org/fileadmin/Startseite/Karriere/POLiS_JuRaGAP_ProposalTemplate_20210203_01.docx).
• Letter of Motivation, incl. motivation for an academic career (1/2 page).
• Transcripts and copy of your university degree, copy of your doctoral/PhD certificate.
   

Selection Process

We follow a two-stage selection process: (a) Pre-selection based on the written applications, (b) final selection during an “Exploration Week” organized in Ulm and Karlsruhe, depending on the pandemic situation. Written applications will be reviewed by an interdisciplinary experts committee. Candidates who successfully pass this pre-selection will be invited to an Exploration Week at POLiS. During this week, applicants will:

• Get to know POLiS and its research environment as well as get information on research funding opportunities in Germany.
• Present their research proposal to the experts committee and members of your potential host institute.
• Have the opportunity to interact with relevant people of your potential host institute as well as to discuss the integration of your research idea into the POLiS research program.
• Final selection of JuRaAGAP participants on the basis of the presentation of your research topic to an interdisciplinary experts committee at the end of the Exploration Week. Please note that you need the support of one of the members (PIs) of POLiS to participate in the final selection.

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