At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research on advanced thin-film solid-electrolyte coatings for silicon anodes.
- Company: Join UCL's top-tier Chemical Engineering department and the Electrochemical Innovation Lab.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and employee support services.
- Other info: Part-time role with excellent career development opportunities in a diverse environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in battery technology and collaborate with industry leaders.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. in relevant field and expertise in lithium-ion research required.
The predicted salary is between 33865 - 41391 £ per year.
UCL Department of Chemical Engineering is one of the top research and teaching departments in the UK and has world-class standing. The department offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, and has an extensive research portfolio across a wealth of areas, from molecular scale to complex systems.
The Electrochemical Innovation Lab (EIL) is a world-leading centre of research excellence. One of the largest and most dynamic groups in the world specializing in electrochemical science and technology, our activities continue to expand with a new initiative, the Advanced Propulsion Lab (part of UCL East) and substantial research funding from UKRI and industry.
About the role: This IPSiE project, funded by Battery Innovation Programme Feasibility Round 1, focuses on demonstrating advanced thin-film solid-electrolyte coatings on silicon anode at cell level at UCL. This work is conducted in close collaboration with Gencoa Ltd and WMG University of Warwick. The post holder will lead the exploration of applying solution-processed thin-film solid electrolyte on silicon anode and closely engage with project partners for cell-level demonstration.
The successful candidate will engage with Gencoa and WMG for project delivery, developing and optimising thin-film coatings on silicon anode provided by project partners. The post holder will be expected to conduct electrochemical and materials characterisation; analyse and interpret results to assess reproducibility, manufacturability, and industrial relevance. Furthermore, the successful candidate will draft technical reports, manuscripts, and patent contributions where appropriate.
Salary is £9,252.20-£9,988.60 (i.e. 20% of £46,261-£49,943) per annum pro rata inclusive of London allowance. This post is offered part-time at 7.3 hours per week (0.2 FTE) and is a fixed-term role until 31st of May 2027 in the first instance.
The successful candidate will hold (or shortly expect to obtain) a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Electrochemistry, Materials Science or cognate discipline and with an undergraduate degree (2(i) minimum) or M.Sc. in a relevant field. The post holder will have proven expertise in lithium-ion research and experience in pouch cells, hands-on experience in thin-film deposition or coating techniques (e.g., spray, spin, dip) and experience with advanced characterisation techniques. A familiarity with solid electrolytes, interfacial engineering, or high-silicon anodes is essential.
What we offer: As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits:
- 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days)
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please contact chemeng.safety@ucl.ac.uk.
The UCL Ways of Working supports colleagues to be successful and happy at UCL through sharing expectations around how we work – please visit www.ucl.ac.uk/ways-of-working to find out more.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Gold award, in recognition of our long-term commitment and 'beacon' status in advancing gender equality.
Research Fellow in Silicon-Anode Lithium-ion Batteries employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
At the UCL Institute for Materials Discovery, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through ample networking opportunities with leading experts in academia and industry, as well as our generous benefits package, including 41 days of holiday and a defined benefit pension scheme. Join us in our mission to advance materials research and make a meaningful impact in the field of biosensing technology, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of London.
Contact Details:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruitment Team
