Principal Scientist - Semi-Solid-State Batteries

Agratas is on a mission to power a more sustainable future. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, we are designing, developing, and manufacturing cutting-edge lithium-ion batteries for the mobility and energy storage sectors. Backed by Tata’s legacy and scale, we’re a bold and ambitious scale-up with a start-up mindset – and we’re just getting started.

At our state-of-the-art Cell R&D Facility in Oxfordshire, we’re building something special. Now, we’re looking to expand our talented Cell R&D Function with a passionate Principal Scientist ready to lead innovation at the forefront of battery technology.

We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert in the field of Semi-Solid-State Batteries (SSSB) or All-Solid-State Batteries (ASSB) to join the Fundamental Research Team, led by Dr Shayan Meysami. Reporting to the Head of Research, this role is ideal for an Established SSSB/ASSB Expert with a track record of delivering cell technology solutions to the EV market, beyond the performance of current high-energy density Li-ion chemistries – someone who has already made significant contributions by taking SSSB/ASSB concepts to pilot scale.

• Establish, maintain and expand a diverse SSSB/ASSB Technology Portfolio for Agratas.
• Oversee the design, development, validation and benchmarking of key SSSB/ASSB cell components, namely catholytes, anolytes, electrolyte additives, high-capacity active materials and separators.
• Manage the activities related to prototyping R&D-scale SSSB/ASSB cells and conducting electrochemical tests to understand the impact of materials chemistry, integration and electrode design on cell performance.
• Lead the root-cause analysis of failure modes and develop suppression strategies.
• Assess the strategies related to overcoming the manufacturability challenges of novel SSSB/ASSB concepts.
• Cross-functionally work with other key stakeholders within the Technology Function to establish and refine predictive models and provide cell R&D inputs required for cell development at scales of 5 Ah or more, by overseeing/following the New Technology Introduction (NTI) process.
• Establish, maintain and expand Cell R&D’s SSSB/ASSB IP portfolio.
• Spearhead the roadmap and benchmarking activities.
• Establish, maintain and expand the network of strategic technology partners.
• Manage, train and coach Senior Scientists, Scientist, Engineers and Technicians.
• Review the technical reports and provide recommendations to the senior management.

The candidate must have/demonstrate:

• > 6 years of industry work experience in the field of SSSB/ASSB in global Tier 1 battery R&D or manufacturing companies or electric vehicle OEMs.
• Manager-level experience in designing and/or prototyping SSSB/ASSB cells.
• Expert knowledge of state-of-the-art SSSB/ASSB in areas such as materials chemistry, stack pressure requirements, interface engineering, failure modes and suppression strategies.
• Deep knowledge of materials science, chemistry, analytical sciences, electrochemistry and lithium-ion cells.
• In-depth knowledge of IP portfolio management (filing applications, patent search, analysing prior art).

A graduate degree in materials science, chemistry or electrochemistry. Prior roles at industry-leading battery developers or manufacturers is essential.

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.