Solid-State Electrolyte Scientist

Location: Cambridge, UK • Department: R&D / Advanced Battery Development • Type: Full-time

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Battery Scientist/Engineer to lead the development of next-generation semi-solid, quasi-solid, and all-solid-state batteries in pouch cell format. This role focuses on interfacial engineering, particularly involving metallic anodes, and requires deep expertise in both lithium and sodium battery chemistries.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize semi-solid, quasi-solid, and all-solid-state battery systems in pouch cell configurations.
• Conduct in-depth interface analysis between solid electrolytes and metallic anodes (e.g., Li, Na), including interphase formation and stability.
• Develop strategies to improve interfacial kinetics, reduce impedance, and enhance cycle life and safety.
• Evaluate and optimize electrolyte formulations (polymer, hybrid, or inorganic) for compatibility with high-energy systems.
• Lead metallic anode integration, including dendrite suppression and plating/stripping efficiency.
• Design and execute electrochemical testing protocols (EIS, cycling, rate capability, etc.).
• Collaborate with materials scientists and engineering teams to scale from lab to prototype cells.
• Analyze failure mechanisms and implement performance improvements.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and contribute to IP and publications.

Required Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Proven experience working with lithium and/or sodium battery chemistries.
• Hands on experience with solid-state, semi solid, or quasi solid battery systems.
• Strong understanding of interfaces in battery systems, especially solid electrolyte-metal anode interactions.
• Experience with pouch cell design, assembly, and testing.
• Proficiency in electrochemical characterization techniques (e.g., EIS, CV, galvanostatic cycling).
• Familiarity with advanced characterization tools (SEM, XPS, TEM, etc.) for interface analysis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with metallic lithium and/or sodium anodes.
• Knowledge of dendrite mitigation strategies and interfacial coatings.
• Background in polymer electrolytes or hybrid solid electrolytes.
• Experience scaling battery technologies from lab to pilot level.
• Track record of patents or publications in advanced battery technologies.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work on cutting edge battery technologies.
• Collaborative and innovation driven environment.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• Career growth in a rapidly evolving field.