Meet the Fellow: Dr. Jakub Goclon
Mg and Zn intercalation in V-based Oxides as promising candidates for emerging post-lithium energy storage
Lithium is scarce, and batteries are in ever greater demand. Our Fellow Dr. Jakub Goclon uses computational chemistry to search for alternatives. During his stay in Bayreuth, he investigated how vanadium oxides could serve as cathodes for magnesium and zinc batteries, a promising route to cheaper and more sustainable energy storage. Between simulations, he found his balance at the Hermitage and on the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu mat.
If you had to explain the research project of your Fellowship to the person you metin the elevator, how would you describe it?
Jakub Goclon: The main goal of my project is to understand the properties of two polymorphs of V2O5 to design high performance cathodes for post-Li technologies such as Mg and Zn batteries. Lithium is limited in the earth's crust. With the development of research and application of Lithium Ion Batteries (LIBs), their cost will increase significantly with the shortage of lithium resources. Consequently, scientists have been exploring new battery systems that are inexpensive, safe, and environmentally friendly. One of these developing state-of-the-art battery systems are magnesium- and zinc-ion batteries, which could be an attractive alternative to LIBs. These multivalent-ion batteries have developed their own niche with their capability to achieve at least twice the energy density of monovalent-ion systems such as LIBs. Furthermore, replacing expensive lithium with cheap zinc and magnesium, which are easy to obtain, drastically reduces the cost of battery production. The study of novel electrode materials for metal-ion batteries has become one of the most important areas of research nowadays.
What is in your opinion the future of your field, and in what way can research in your field contribute to meeting the urgent challenges of our time?
Jakub Goclon: The future of theoretical and computational chemistry is completely unpredictable. It has changed significantly in recent years due to the rapid development of AI tools. While existing quantum chemistry methods are widely applicable and accurate, their high computational cost often makes them impractical, particularly for large systems or high-throughput workflows. Currently, machine-learning interatomic potentials, trained on huge amounts of data, can quickly and accurately predict both chemical structures and their physicochemical properties. Using these potentials, we can model different realistic systems and reaction processes that would have been unthinkable just ten years ago. Most importantly, I can do so at a low computational cost. Therefore, we can expect to see spectacular discoveries in the field of materials with desirable application properties, as well as new drugs, in the coming years.
What does international research mobility mean to you?
Jakub Goclon: In today's scientific world, international mobility facilitates the free exchange of knowledge. If you are an open-minded scientist with ambitious projects, it is essential to go to renowned research centres abroad to learn new methods and tools, and to broaden your perspective.
What was your personal experience during your stay, e.g. what did you like best about the University/
the city of Bayreuth? What is your favourite spot in Bayreuth or the region?
Jakub Goclon: My time in Bayreuth was largely shaped by the university's vibrant campus culture. I was particularly impressed by the way the city balanced its Franconian traditions with its highly international research community. It was also great that I could easily and safely get everywhere by bike, which was very convenient. My favourite spot was the Hofgarten Eremitage, where I spent a lot of time relaxing and enjoying the perfect mental reset that nature provided during my busy research stay.
What were your expectations when you applied for the Fellowship? Did you have specific goals in mind, something you were hoping to achieve?
Jakub Goclon: When I applied for the fellowship, I had three main expectations. Academically, I expected a high-level
research environment, for which the University of Bayreuth is renowned. Personally, I was looking for a host institution that would inspire me and offer a creative atmosphere. In terms of social life, I was looking for a city where I could enjoy my free time and train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu consistently, just as I do in my hometown. I am delighted to say that Bayreuth exceeded these expectations, offering the perfect balance of academic excellence, personal inspiration and physical activity.