At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on recycling and remanufacturing of battery materials.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham's School of Metallurgy and Materials.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of sustainable battery technology and contribute to a greener future.
- Qualifications: PhD in battery materials or equivalent experience required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 47389 - 56535 £ per year.
Position Details
School of Metallurgy and Materials
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £47,389 to £56,535 with potential progression once in post to £63,606
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to March 2028
Closing date: 8th March 2026
Background
The post is a fixed term Research Fellow II position funded by the ReLiB (Recycling and Reuse of Lithium-ion Batteries) research grant, provided by the Faraday Institution, the UK's independent institute for electrochemical energy storage research and skills development. The overall aim of the ReLiB project (ReLiB – Sustainable Management of Lithium-ion Batteries) is to understand the conditions required to ensure the sustainable management of lithium-ion batteries at the end of their useful life in electric vehicles.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham are investigating separation technology efficiency and characterisation of separated lithium-ion battery fractions, in addition to closing the loop of these material streams through manufacturing efforts and electrochemical testing.
To help us achieve our ambitious goal, we are seeking to recruit a Research Fellow II within the Metallurgy and Materials department. The postholder will lead the upscaling and validation of regenerated battery materials. This will include synthesis and scale-up of relithiation processes, powder processing, and electrode development. The successful candidate will be responsible for materials scale-up, electrode production on a reel-to-reel coater, and single-layer pouch cell manufacturing and electrochemical testing.
Role Summary
- Initiate and conduct original research which has measurable outcomes and is reflected in a growing national and often incipient international reputation
- Plan, design and co-ordinate research activities and programmes
- Contribute to the development of research strategies
- Publish results of own research
- Supervise PhD students
- Contribute to the Department/School through management/leadership
Main Duties
- To plan and carry out research, using appropriate methodology and techniques.
- Pursue personal research, including developing research ideas and winning support, including financial support
- Plan, publish and/or execute high-quality research
- Project manage research on ReLIB, and supervise other research staff
- Present high-quality findings in publications and conference proceedings
- Develop novel methodologies and techniques related to materials scale-up and electrochemical testing
- Train researchers and PhD students in materials manufacturing, powder processing, electrode formulations and coatings, and cell manufacturing
- Provide expert advice to colleagues and students within battery materials and cell development
- Contribute to the administration/management of research across Metallurgy and Materials
- Contribute to the management and running of the Energy Materials Group facilities and equipment
Person Specification
- A higher degree relevant to battery materials (normally PhD) or equivalent qualifications
- Extensive research experience and scholarship within materials manufacture, reel-to-reel coatings and pouch cell making
- Experience and achievement reflected in a growing reputation
- Extensive experience and demonstrated success in planning, undertaking and project managing research to deliver high quality results
- Extensive experience of applying and/or developing and devising successful routes to scale-up materials
- Extensive experience and achievement in knowledge transfer, enterprise and similar activity
- Experience of championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in own work area
Research Fellow II (Recycling and Remanufacturing of Battery Materials) - School of Metallurgy and Materials - 106979 - Grade 8 in Birmingham employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow II (Recycling and Remanufacturing of Battery Materials) - School of Metallurgy and Materials - 106979 - Grade 8 in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend relevant events, and connect with researchers at the University of Birmingham. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, make sure to express your enthusiasm for recycling and remanufacturing battery materials. Your genuine interest can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Brush up on your knowledge about lithium-ion batteries and the latest research trends. Being well-informed will help you tackle any curveballs thrown your way during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the exciting work we do in battery materials.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow II (Recycling and Remanufacturing of Battery Materials) - School of Metallurgy and Materials - 106979 - Grade 8 in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the role and how you communicate. Avoid using AI tools too heavily, as we’re looking for your unique voice.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in battery materials and research. Show us how your skills align with the goals of the ReLiB project and the School of Metallurgy and Materials.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t hold back on sharing your accomplishments! Whether it’s publications, successful projects, or innovative methodologies, we want to know what you’ve achieved in your research career.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right place and is considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in battery materials and recycling technologies. Familiarise yourself with the ReLiB project and its goals, as well as the Faraday Institution's vision. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about specific methodologies related to materials scale-up, electrochemical testing, and electrode development. Brush up on your knowledge of reel-to-reel coatings and pouch cell manufacturing processes. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves supervising PhD students and managing research projects, be prepared to share examples of your leadership experience. Discuss how you've successfully guided teams or projects in the past, and highlight any contributions to knowledge transfer or public engagement activities.
✨Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion
The University values diversity and inclusion, so be ready to discuss how you’ve championed these principles in your work. Share specific examples of how you’ve contributed to creating an inclusive environment or addressed barriers faced by underrepresented groups in your field.