Research Scientist - Polymer Electrolytes for Sodium Batteries

ZipRecruiter; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

Job Description

Research Scientist - Polymer Electrolytes for Sodium Batteries

You'll be focused on developing and optimising polymer-based electrolytes to enhance sodium battery performance, stability, and safety, contributing to next-generation energy storage solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Polymer Electrolyte Development:
   * Design, synthesise, and characterise polymer electrolytes for sodium-ion batteries.
   * Optimise polymer composition and morphology to improve ionic conductivity, mechanical stability, and thermal properties.
2. Electrochemical Performance Testing:
   * Conduct electrochemical analyses (e.g., impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry) to evaluate electrolyte performance.
   * Test long-term stability, sodium ion transport, and interfacial compatibility with battery electrodes.
3. Material Characterisation:
   * Use advanced techniques such as SEM, FTIR, NMR, and XPS to analyse and characterise polymer materials.
   * Study electrolyte degradation mechanisms and develop strategies to enhance durability.
4. Collaboration and Reporting:
   * Work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including chemists, engineers, and material scientists.
   * Document findings, write reports, and present research progress in team meetings and conferences.
5. Scale-Up and Application Testing:
   * Support the transition of lab-scale polymer electrolyte solutions to scalable prototypes for commercial application.
   * Test polymer electrolytes in coin cells and pouch cells under relevant operational conditions.

Required Qualifications:

1. * Ph.D. or M.Sc. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, with a focus on electrochemistry or polymers.
2. * Proven experience with sodium-ion batteries, polymer synthesis, and characterization techniques.
3. * Hands-on experience with electrochemical testing and knowledge of sodium battery technology.

Skills:

1. * Familiarity with solid-state or gel-polymer electrolytes.
2. * Knowledge of advanced materials design for energy storage.
3. * Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis software.

Benefits:

This is an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge battery technology with a focus on sustainable energy solutions. We offer competitive compensation, professional development, and opportunities for growth in a collaborative and innovative work environment.