We are seeking an outstanding candidate to work on the design and development of new approaches to the fabrication of electrodes for Li ion batteries. Core to the research is realising in practice the concept of a “structured electrode” (also known as a smart electrode) in which the local composition (active, binder, conductivity, etc), function, porosity (fraction, shape) and overall microstructure is controlled from place to place, according to a design that aims to maximise the overall required performance balance (energy, power, lifetime, cost, etc) of the electrode and the battery. Some of the research work will focus on new ways of achieving smart electrodes via solvent free, or dry, processing.

 

The research forms part of the large multi-institution collaborative project entitled Next Generation Electrodes (NEXTRODE) funded by the UK’s Faraday Institution. 

 

The appointed person will collaborate with other researchers and technicians in the group, elsewhere within the Department and the University, and across the Nextrode consortium including industrial partners. The work will be primarily experimental focused on process development, electrode manufacture and performance assessment, but depending on the skills of the successful applicant, may also involve some aspects of novel equipment development, microstructural assessment, data science or other relevant area. 

 

The post is funded initially until 31 March 2025 although there is the possibility of extension until 30 September 2025, subject to the availability and renewal of external funding. 

 

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 (or be near completion) in one of the above disciplines and have experience that is centred on experimental, hands-on manufacture related to battery fabrication. 

 

The overall aim of the Nextrode project is to seize the emergent opportunity in the manufacture of smart electrodes by investigating: (i) the underlying reasons why current Li ion battery electrode performance in practice falls well short of theory, (ii) novel approaches to electrode design that can overcome these restrictions, and (iii) how these designs can be realized at a scale and cost that makes them attractive to industry. Across the Nextrode consortium, the research involves elements of design, novel process and equipment development, modelling, manufacture, characterisation and data science.  

 

All applications must be made online using the Oxford University E-Recruitment system, no later than 12 noon on 6 October 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.

 

Interviews are scheduled to take place at the Department of Materials on Friday 27 October 2023 and you must be available on this date, either by Teams or in person. Please note in normal circumstances only interview travel expenses within the UK will be reimbursed.