Research Associate in the Photophysics of Battery Materials & Molecular Systems (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Cambridge invites applications for a Research Associate in the Optoelectronics Group, Cavendish Laboratory. The role focuses on photophysics of battery materials using optical spectroscopy and optical microscopy to study charge and ion transport during operation.

The successful candidate will design experiments, analyse data, and publish findings, while collaborating with researchers and PhD students, as well as national and international partners.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant field.
• Experience in optical spectroscopy and optical microscopy is essential.
• Experience with molecular materials, battery or electrochemical materials is essential.
• Ability to analyse large datasets and publish findings.

Responsibilities

• Design and carry out experiments combining optical spectroscopy and microscopy.
• Analyse and interpret data and publish and present findings.
• Collaborate with group members and national/international partners.

Skills

Optical spectroscopy

Optical microscopy

Data analysis

Publishing/writing

Education

PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or related

Tools

Optical instruments development

Large datasets tools (Python/MATLAB)

Job description

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 36 months in the first instance.

Applications are invited for a Research Associate to join the group of Professor Akshay Rao in the Optoelectronics Group, Department of Physics (Cavendish Laboratory), University of Cambridge. The role holder will study the photophysics of and battery materials & molecular systems, using optical spectroscopy and optical microscopy to investigate charge and ion transport, and the structural and chemical changes that occur in these materials during operation.

The role holder will design and carry out experiments that combine optical spectroscopy and optical microscopy, analyse and interpret the resulting data, and publish and present the findings. They will be expected to take part in collaborations with other researchers and PhD students in the group, as well as with national and international partners.

Appointment as a Research Associate depends on having been awarded, or close to being awarded, a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or a related discipline. Candidates must have experimental experience in both optical spectroscopy and optical microscopy. Experience with molecular materials, battery or electrochemical materials, optical instrument development and the analysis of large datasets is essential.

Candidates must provide the names and contact details of two referees who know their work or studies in the relevant field.

The position is available from 4 January 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter, for 36 months.

Please see the attached further information file for role-specific details.

Enquiries should be sent to Professor Akshay Rao ([e-mail]).

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.