Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position to use characterisation techniques to investigate zero-excess Li metal cells (a.k.a. “anode-free” or “anode-less”) as a part of the Faraday Institution Battery Degradation Programme. The focus of this research project is to use in situ, operando, and other characterisation techniques such as time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS), X-ray...
Job description
Job summary
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position to use characterisation techniques to investigate zero-excess Li metal cells (a.k.a. “anode-free” or “anode-less”) as a part of the Faraday Institution Battery Degradation Programme. The focus of this research project is to use in situ, operando, and other characterisation techniques such as time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS), X-ray scattering, X-ray tomography, etc. to study battery degradation. Rechargeable batteries are of significant interest to a wide range of industries such as electric transportation, and investigating their degradation is important.
Duties and responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
Research Duties:
- Using characterisation techniques such as ToF-SIMS, X-ray scattering, X-ray tomography, etc. to investigate zero-excess Li metal cells (a.k.a. “anode-free” or “anode-less”).
- Characterisation of SEI layers on anode-less substrates, and physical properties (thickness, Young’s modulus, etc.) of the SEI layers.
- Perform both experimental and computational research activities.
- Preparation of high quality research papers in English for international scientific literature.
- Communicate research findings and methodologies with members of the group.
- Contribute ideas for new research projects.
- Recording progress in hard drives according to standard practice.
- Preparation and delivery of presentations to the wider scientific team.
- Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on characterisation and other relevant research areas.
- Assist the other research staff in the day-to-day management of the research group.
Other Duties:
- To undertake any necessary training and/or development.
- To undertake appropriate administration tasks.
Essential requirements
Candidates/post holders will be expected to demonstrate the following:
- Research Associate: Hold a PhD (or equivalent) in chemistry, materials science, physical chemistry, chemical engineering or relevant science and engineering discipline.
- Research Assistant: Near completion of a PhD (or equivalent) in chemistry, materials science, physical chemistry, chemical engineering or relevant science and engineering discipline.
- Research experience (e.g. characterisation, assembly, testing, etc.) in zero-excess Li metal cells (a.k.a. “anode-free” or “anode-less”)
- Hands-on experience of using characterisation techniques such as ToF-SIMS, X-ray scattering, X-ray tomography, etc. to characterise battery properties
- Hands-on experience in using and developing in situ and operando characterisation techniques
- Hands-on experience of using characterisation techniques to characterise SEI (e.g. physical properties, thickness, Young’s modulus, etc.)
- Research experience of developing methods to reduce battery degradation
- Research experience and output in both experimental and computational activities
- A strong publication record, commensurate with experience, in peer-reviewed journals
- Well-organised and self-motivated with the ability to manage the day-to-day running of a research project, to identify research objectives and to carry out appropriate research activities within a given timescale
- Ability to work with the other members of the group and communicating findings and methodologies
- Ability to contribute ideas for new research projects
- Experience of interactions with commercial sponsors, etc.
Further information
*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant within the salary range £38,194 - £41,388 per annum.
Additional information please contact: Dr Ann Huang, a.huang@imperial.ac.uk
Guidance may be sought from Darakshan Khan (d.khan@imperial.ac.uk).
Technical issues, please contact: support.jobs@imperial.ac.uk