Senior Electrolyte Scientist - Semi‐Solid‐State Batteries in Oxford

Agratas is shaping the future of energy storage, and we're looking for a Senior Electrolyte Scientist to join our world-class R&D team. If you're driven by innovation, excited by next-generation battery technologies, and ready to help accelerate the transition to sustainable energy, this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesise, and optimise polymer-based electrolytes, including gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs), solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs), and hybrid systems.
• Develop novel polymer structures, crosslinking strategies, and ionic transport mechanisms to enhance conductivity, stability, and electrode compatibility.
• Formulate and evaluate liquid, semi-solid, and solid-state electrolyte systems for lithium-ion and next-generation battery platforms.
• Apply deep understanding of state-of-the-art cell design, including materials chemistry, stack pressure considerations, component integration, failure modes, and suppression strategies.
• Design and execute experiments to evaluate electrolyte performance in coin cells and pouch cells.
• Conduct advanced electrochemical and materials characterisation (DSC, TGA, FTIR, NMR, GPC, rheology, EIS, etc.).
• Interpret ionic transport behaviour, polymer morphology, mechanical properties, and interfacial stability.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, publications, patent filings, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to IP strategy, including patent searches, prior-art analysis, and freedom-to-operate assessments.

What We're Looking For

• At least 3 years of industry experience in semi-solid-state or all-solid-state battery R&D within a global Tier 1 battery company, manufacturer, or EV OEM.
• Expert knowledge of SSSB/ASSB technologies, including materials chemistry, interface engineering, stack pressure requirements, and failure-mode mitigation.
• Strong foundation in materials science, chemistry, analytical sciences, electrochemistry, and lithium-ion cell fundamentals.
• Deep expertise in polymer science and structure–property relationships.
• Hands-on experience developing polymer electrolyte systems for batteries or electrochemical devices.
• Strong understanding of electrolyte–electrode interfacial phenomena.
• Experience with IP portfolio management, including filing, patent search, and prior-art analysis.

Ideal Background

• Graduate degree (MSc/PhD) in materials science, chemistry, electrochemistry, or a related discipline.
• Prior experience at industry-leading battery developers or manufacturers (essential).
• Direct experience with semi-solid or solid-state lithium-ion battery systems.

Why Join Us?

This is a chance to influence the future of battery technology from the inside – working with some of the best minds in the field in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment. We offer competitive compensation, flexible banding for the right talent, and significant career progression opportunities.

At Agratas, we do more than build batteries – we build futures. This is your chance to join a fast-moving business that combines the agility of a start-up with the resources and stability of Tata Sons. Here, your work will directly contribute to the clean energy transition. You'll be supported, celebrated, and empowered to do the best work of your career – while being your authentic self.

We believe innovation thrives in a culture of inclusivity. At Agratas, we actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, races, genders, abilities, and identities. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let our Talent Acquisition team know.