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- Tasks: Research potassium-sulphur batteries and improve their electrochemical performance.
- Company: Join the prestigious Chemistry Department at University College London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, vibrant academic environment, and opportunities for collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable battery technology and advance your research career.
- Qualifications: PhD in Chemistry or related field with expertise in battery electrochemistry.
- Other info: Collaborative team atmosphere with opportunities to mentor students.
The predicted salary is between 43981 - 52586 £ per year.
Location: London
Salary: £43,981 to £52,586
Hours: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract
Placed On: 27th January 2026
Closes: 17th February 2026
The Chemistry Department at University College London is the oldest in England and is ranked 3rd in the UK for its world-leading research in REF2021. We are located in Bloomsbury, at the heart of London, offering an exciting and vibrant environment in which to study in one of the UK’s top universities.
The Department of Chemistry at UCL is committed to supporting excellence in both research and teaching. The department offers undergraduate BSc and MSci programmes in Chemistry and currently teaches approximately 750 undergraduates registered in Chemistry, as well as students who select Chemistry on the Natural Sciences programme and first-year Chemistry for life scientists. The department also offers a number of Postgraduate Taught Masters courses with about 80 students per year and has an overall PGR student school of about 200 students.
The Chemistry Department has over 60 members of academic staff carrying out world-leading research. We specialise in organic synthesis, chemical biology, computational chemistry, nanotechnology, inorganic and materials chemistry, physical chemistry, and chemical physics. The department has an annual research income of around £15 million, derived from many sources including the Research Councils (EPSRC, BBSRC, MRC, and NERC), European Commission, and a wide range of charities and industrial partners in the UK, Europe, and the USA.
Details about our research can be found on the departmental website. We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in the group of Dr Yang Xu in the Department of Chemistry at University College London.
Role and Responsibilities:
- The appointee will investigate potassium-sulphur batteries.
- A key feature of the project will be to understand the electrochemistry of potassium-sulphur reactions, including the behaviour of electrochemical potassium plating/stripping on current collectors and the phase transition of sulphur oxidation/reduction reactions, to improve the kinetics of potassium-sulphur reactions by developing electrocatalysts.
- The postholder will be required to investigate the anode/electrolyte interfacial kinetics, examine the multi-phase reactions of the cathode, and discover efficient catalysts for cell reactions.
- The appointee will be part of a collaboration team and will be required to present results and contribute significantly to a feedback loop.
Qualifications:
- The successful candidate will have a PhD degree (or be about to be awarded a PhD) in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related subject.
- Expertise in conversion cathode materials and alkali metal batteries, as well as experience in mechanistic investigation of battery electrochemistry via a suite of in-situ/ex-situ characterisations, are essential.
- They should have an appropriate publication track record, demonstrated commitment to excellence, and exceptional skills in mechanistic study of battery electrochemistry.
- They will be expected to work closely with existing group members and the collaborative team, offer supervision and support to undergraduate and postgraduate students, and have effective written and verbal communication skills in English.
Find out more and apply.
Research Associate in Sustainable Battery Technology in London employer: UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC)
Contact Detail:
UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Sustainable Battery Technology in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of sustainable battery technology. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the department and its recent projects. Familiarise yourself with their work on potassium-sulphur batteries and think about how your skills can contribute. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! Since you'll be part of a collaborative team, being able to communicate your findings clearly is key. Try explaining your research to friends or family to get comfortable with discussing complex topics in simple terms.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, go ahead and submit that application!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Sustainable Battery Technology in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your PhD and any relevant experience in potassium-sulphur batteries or electrochemistry. We want to see how your background fits with our exciting research!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about sustainable battery technology. Share specific examples of your work and how it relates to the role. This is your chance to show us your enthusiasm and commitment!
Showcase Your Publications: If you have a publication track record, make sure to include it! Highlight any papers related to battery electrochemistry or materials science. We love seeing evidence of your research contributions and expertise.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on potassium-sulphur batteries and the latest in battery electrochemistry. Familiarise yourself with the specific reactions and mechanisms involved, as well as any recent advancements in the field. This will show your genuine interest and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your PhD research and any relevant projects in detail. Highlight your experience with conversion cathode materials and in-situ/ex-situ characterisations. Be ready to explain how your skills can contribute to the team's goals and the overall project.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since this role involves collaboration, be prepared to talk about your experience working in teams. Share examples of how you've contributed to group projects or supported fellow researchers. Emphasising your ability to communicate effectively and work well with others will be key.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready about the research group's current projects or future directions. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the team is the right fit for you.
