At a Glance
- Tasks: Research advanced recycling methods for next-gen battery materials and contribute to sustainable manufacturing.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a leader in battery research and innovation.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD with tax-free stipend and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
- Other info: Collaborate with top academic and industrial partners across Europe and North America.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of sustainable energy and battery technology.
- Qualifications: First-class or upper second-class degree in relevant fields; experience in batteries is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
The transition to electrified transport and renewable energy storage is driving unprecedented growth in battery manufacturing.
However, large-scale battery production generates significant quantities of manufacturing scrap, including coated electrode off-cuts and rejected cells, which contain valuable active materials that are currently underutilised.
The development of efficient recycling technologies is therefore essential to support a sustainable and resilient battery supply chain.
This Ph D project, in the Energy Materials Group, at the University of Birmingham, will investigate advanced direct recycling approaches for lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery materials, with a particular focus on lithium iron phosphate (LFP), lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP), and sodium-ion battery chemistries.
The research aligns with the objectives of the EU funded project DRAGONS (Direct Recycling with AI for Gigafactory Operations and Next-generation Sustainability) programme, which seeks to develop scalable and economically viable recycling solutions for gigafactory production scrap.
Unlike conventional recycling methods that break battery materials down into their constituent elements, direct recycling aims to preserve the structure and functionality of active electrode materials, reducing energy consumption and maximising material value.
The successful candidate will explore pathways for recovering, regenerating, and reintegrating battery materials into new cell manufacturing processes.
Research activities may include
- Characterisation of battery production scrap and recovered materials.
- Development of electrode delamination and separation processes.
- Investigation of binder removal and purification strategies.
- Relithiation and realkaliation approaches for restoring electrochemical performance.
- Fabrication and testing of electrodes containing recycled material.
- Electrochemical evaluation of recycled cathode and anode materials.
- Development of design-for-recycling principles for future battery technologies.
The project will be based within the School of Metallurgy and Materials at the The University of Birmingham, internationally recognised for its leadership in battery research and recycling.
The student will have access to state-of-the-art facilities including battery manufacturing dry rooms, reel-to-reel coating equipment, electrochemical testing laboratories, mineral processing facilities, and advanced materials characterisation tools.
Working within a multidisciplinary research environment, the student will collaborate with leading academic and industrial partners across Europe and North America, gaining experience in both fundamental materials science and industrially relevant battery manufacturing and recycling technologies.
The outcomes of this research will contribute to the development of sustainable battery value chains, reduction of critical raw material dependency, and advancement of circular economy principles within the global battery industry.
Funding notes
Fully funded Ph D studentship available through project and institutional funding.
The award will cover UK only, home tuition fees and provide a tax-free annual stipend at the prevailing UKRI rate for 3.5 years.
Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a first-class or upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, Physics, Electrochemistry, or a related discipline.
Experience in batteries, energy materials, recycling, or materials characterisation is desirable but not essential.
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PhD Studentship: Direct Recycling of Next-Generation Battery Materials for Sustainable and Circular Manufacturing in Birmingham employer: University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee development, the School of Chemistry provides ample opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles, all while being situated in a dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage and supportive community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Direct Recycling of Next-Generation Battery Materials for Sustainable and Circular Manufacturing in Birmingham
✨Join Research Communities
Get involved with scientific research communities online, like ResearchGate or even niche forums related to your specific field of interest. These platforms often have internship listings and can put you in touch with researchers who are keen on mentoring interns like you!
✨Attend Conferences and Workshops
Keep an eye out for academic conferences or workshops happening in your area or even virtually. They’re fantastic networking opportunities where you can meet professionals who could help you land that internship you’re after. Plus, you can showcase your enthusiasm and ask about any upcoming openings!
✨Tap into University Resources
Don’t forget to leverage your university’s career services! They often have exclusive internship listings and can connect you with professors who might have research projects needing interns. It's a great way to get your foot in the door while still studying.
✨Pitch Yourself to Labs
Reach out directly to labs or research groups whose work really excites you, like those at University of Birmingham. Even if they don’t have posted internships, a compelling email showing your passion can sometimes lead to hidden opportunities. Show them what you’ve got to offer!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Direct Recycling of Next-Generation Battery Materials for Sustainable and Circular Manufacturing in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Research Skills:In the scientific research field, your ability to conduct experiments and analyse data is key. Be sure to highlight any relevant coursework, lab experience or research projects you've been involved in. If you've used specific techniques or software (like Python for data analysis), mention them — they can really make your application shine!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Make sure your CV is tailored to the internship you're applying for at University of Birmingham. Include sections that detail relevant courses, projects, and any lab techniques you’re proficient in. If you've done any work that resulted in tangible outcomes (like publications or presentations), make sure to feature these prominently to showcase your potential!
Passion and Motivation Matter:Your cover letter is a chance to show your enthusiasm for the position and the field. Talk about what drives your interest in scientific research and how this internship at University of Birmingham fits into your career goals. We're looking for passion here, so don’t hold back!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certifications related to scientific research (like Good Laboratory Practice or safety training), definitely include them! This extra detail can set you apart and demonstrate that you're serious about working in the field. It shows you're prepared and understand the standards required in research settings.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Master the Fundamentals
In scientific research, it's crucial to brush up on the basics of your field. Make sure you can discuss core concepts with confidence. We might be quizzed on specific methodologies or experimental designs related to the projects University of Birmingham is involved in, so be prepared to showcase your understanding.
✨Your Passion Matters
As an intern, showing enthusiasm for the research area can set you apart. Make sure to articulate why you're excited about this specific role at University of Birmingham and how it aligns with your learning goals. Your potential to grow and learn is just as important as your current skill set!
✨Soak Up Online Resources
Utilise online resources and journals to familiarise yourself with recent developments in your chosen research area. If University of Birmingham is working on groundbreaking studies, knowing about them can really impress your interviewers and show you've done your homework.
✨Practical Experience Counts
If you have any lab work or relevant projects, prepare to discuss them in detail. Even if it's a class project, understanding the results and what you learned will help demonstrate your practical skills. We can also consider having a digital portfolio ready for specific examples, just in case!
