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