Scientist - Microstructural Engineer

A fantastic opportunity for an experienced Scientist to join LiNa Energy,

a disruptive clean-tech battery technology company,

whose ambition is to significantly contribute to achieving global net-zero targets

LiNa Energy is based in Lancaster and is developing a novel battery technology to transform energy-storage solutions. As a Senior Scientist, you will directly contribute to the development and optimisation of LiNa’s solid-state sodium battery cells with a specific focus on microstructural optimisation measured through battery performance, and developing the understanding of key microstructural parameters through multi-physics modelling. The role is full-time and is based at our science facility in the centre of Lancaster.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the continued improvement of cathode performance in cell technologies at LiNa Energy, with a focus on optimization of microstructures and how this varies as a function of composition in line with the company roadmap, strategy, and product delivery schedule.
• Working individually and collaborating with the R&D team, you will aid in the understanding of key cell components from first principles while providing inputs on how the structure of LiNa’s cell technologies can be optimized.
• Use multi-physics modelling of the electrochemical environment within LiNa cells to create and develop models of the components within the LiNa cell and using this to optimize .
• Working closely with the Group Lead, you will plan work packages to meet sprint goals, contributing to and leading internal team meetings and project updates.
• Develop and maintain documentation including design specifications, test plans, and user manuals such as SOP’s.
• Champion and adhere to project schedules and milestones, ensuring timely delivery of project deliverables and technological milestones
• Maintain awareness of literature, ideate on new potential routes, and propose technical advances.
• Collaborate with external suppliers, academics, and vendors to source components or materials, tools, or services required for cell research and development.

Essential Skills and Experience

• 3+ years in 3D-electrode development in electrochemical systems (batteries, fuel cells etc)
• Experience with characterisation of microstructures through techniques such as cross-sectional SEM, FIBSEM, BET etc.
• Significant academic or industrial experience in relevant computer software (COMSOL, etc.)
• A fundamental understanding of electrochemical devices, including the formation of interfaces and SEIs in batteries and the major mechanisms governing these
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering or a closely related field.
• Ability to collaborate across disciplines and departments, with focus on commercialisation and on novel research and development.
• Experience working within a laboratory and operating within a glovebox environment.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Skills and Experience Preferred (but not essential)

• Experience in process optimisation, design of experiments, and presentation of multivariate analysis to wider teams to ensure good communication.
• Technical curiosity for continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience working within agile project management methodologies

About the employer

• LiNa Energy is commercialising a safe, high-performance, low-cost, solid-state sodium battery technology for stationary storage and transport applications. We work at the cutting-edge of alternative battery technology.
• At LiNa, we strive to create a healthy work environment by placing strong emphasis on teamwork, openness, and communication between all areas of the business. The successful candidate will be an integral part of the technical team and drive LiNa’s cutting edge, disruptive battery technology to full commercialisation.
• LiNa is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity

Additional Information

• Applicants must have right to remain and work in the UK
• Salary range: LiNa Energy will offer the successful candidate a competitive package that includes pension contributions and EMI share options
• Job type: Permanent
• Hours: Full-time
• Location: Based at our Head Office in Lancaster