PhD Mechanical Development Venting Systems Battery Cells (all genders)

Who we are

Our mission has started. We are starting our own battery cell production in Battery Valley in Salzgitter and ramping up our headquarters for global cell production. The CTO organization takes care of the battery cell development. Our responsibility includes research, predevelopment of materials and components, series development, prototyping, testing and analysis of battery cells.

Your role and key responsibilities

Analysis and evaluation of existing vent concepts for battery cells
Development and optimization of mechanical pressure equalization valves
Simulation and experimental investigation of thermal runaway
Execution of component and cell tests (pressure & degassing)
Development and evaluation of alternative vent concepts

The final doctoral topic will be defined together with the professor (m/f/d). The prerequisite for the cooperation is the confirmation of supervision and a confirmed definition of the topic by the professor (m/f/d) of a university or research institution entitled to award doctorates.

What you bring to the team

Completed master's degree in mechanical engineering, materials science or a comparable qualification
Knowledge of mechanical development, testing and mechanical & thermal simulation
First experience with common simulation software in the automotive sector such as PAMCRASH, Abaqus, StarCCM+
Very good knowledge of German and English (business fluent)
Structured, analytical way of working

What makes you stand out

Ownership concept and hands-on mentality
High level of creativity
Pioneering spirit

What to look forward to

Three-year doctoral program in which the doctoral students work on internal tasks of PowerCo in addition to their doctorate
35-hour week, flexible working hours
30 days paid vacation + 24.12. & 31.12. off
Interdisciplinary qualification opportunities
Regular feedback meetings and close technical supervision in the department
Opportunity for scientific exchange with other doctoral students of the Volkswagen Group

Company: PowerCo SE

Location:

Salzgitter, DE

Job Function: Technological development

Level of Experience: Doctorate

Job ID: 4499

Publication Date: May 7, 2026

Are you a battery believer?

PowerCo was founded in 2022 to become a global battery champion. Headquartered in Germany, we are currently ramping up gigafactories in Salzgitter, Valencia and St. Thomas in Canada with a total volume of up to 200 GWh. We are integrating the entire value chain and building a supply chain as local as possible. With that we are driving the development of a strong, sustainable battery industry in Europe and North America.

Questions?

For all the questions you may have, take a look into our FAQ.
Your question is not answered in the FAQ? Feel free to reach out to our colleagues.

📧 careers@powerco.de

Benefits

Gain more insights in our benefits for Professionals or Future Talents

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We believe that the best results are created in a diverse and inclusive environment.
Therefore, all qualified applications will be considered for employment regardless of age, race, religion, gender (identity), sexual orientation, national origin or disability.

Apply now »