Senior Postdoctoral Research Assistant in the Processing of Solid State Batteries

THIS IS A RE-ADVERTISEMENT PREVIOUS APPLICANTS NEED NOT APPLY

We are seeking an outstanding researcher to study the development, processing and understanding of solid-state batteries. The research forms part of the large multi-institution collaborative project SOLBAT funded by the Faraday Institution (

https://www.solbat-faraday.org/

). As well as undertaking research directly, you will play a significant role in managing and monitoring the progress of the wider solid-state battery research in the group. You will be a senior member of the team developing new manufacturing approaches for smart, higher performing solid-state batteries using standardised and bespoke processing equipment and ideas. You will study the electrochemical behaviour, and analyse the structure, of electrodes using microscopy-based characterisation techniques. You will take a design-led approach to improved electrolytes, electrodes and cells and always have a consideration for cost-effective scale-up. The post funding is available up to 31 March 2025 and will be based in the Department of Materials at the Begbroke Science Park site, 5 miles north of Oxford.

With a background in materials science, materials processing or related engineering or physical sciences discipline, you will be self-motivated, imaginative and able to plan and deliver a research project. You will have a PhD in one of the above disciplines and have experience that is centred on experimental, hands on manufacture related to battery fabrication. You will also be able to make significant high quality and imaginative contributions in monitoring, managing and representing the group’s research battery research externally and with funders.

The next phase of SOLBAT (2023-2025) is split into three workpackages, and the current post relates to workpackage 3 focused on the properties and processing of solid-state electrolytes led by Professor Patrick Grant in the Department of Materials at Oxford University. The post will start as soon as possible.

The post holder will join the Processing of Advanced Materials (

https://pam.web.ox.ac.uk/

)  group, reporting and supporting Professor Patrick Grant. As well as progressing their scientific investigations in solid-state batteries according to the SOLBAT proposal, the post holder will also take the lead in the preparation of monthly high quality presentation and reporting materials that integrates work of other research students and postdoctoral research assistants (PDRAs) from elsewhere in the group and across the SOLBAT team. The post holder will present progress to the Faraday Institution and to their scientific experts monthly, receiving feedback, disseminating this feedback to other researchers, and overseeing its implementation. The post holder will also take the lead in preparing high quality materials and delivering presentations to 6 monthly Faraday Institution Expert Panel and annual meetings. The postholder will work closely with the SOLBAT Project Manager on details of planning, programme delivery and budget control and forecasting, and frequently represent Professor Grant at various SOLBAT, Faraday Institution and national and international meetings.

All applications must be made online using the Oxford University E-Recruitment system, no later than 12 noon on 9 June 2023. You will be required to upload a CV and a Supporting Statement as part of your application. Please do not attach any manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets or certificates as these will not be considered as part of your application. Please note this post is a re-advertisement of a previous post (vacancy reference 163535) and previous applicants need not apply.

Interviews are scheduled to take place at the Department of Materials on Friday 23rd and Friday 30th June 2023 and you must be available on these dates, either by Teams, Zoom or in person. Please note in normal circumstances only interview travel expenses within the UK will be reimbursed.