About us

A post-doctoral researcher is sought for a position with the Electrochemical Innovation (EIL) and Advanced Propulsion Labs (APL) at UCL, a world-leading centre for research in electrochemical technology. This post forms part of an academic/industrial collaboration focussed on developing improved knowledge in the field of electric aviation. Further details of the group can be found at https://www.ucl.ac.uk/electrochemical-innovation-lab/ and https://www.ucl.ac.uk/advanced-propulsion-lab/advanced-propulsion-lab-0.

About the role

The post holder will be required to carry out research to develop high-throughput methods to screen and select Li-ion cells which meet a range of performance metrics. In addition, the post holder will perform a suite of degradation studies to identify characteristic behaviours which can be used to qualify and validate cells. The ideal candidate will therefore have a strong background in batteries and the electrochemical testing of cells. Specific duties include: • Developing test to enable the selection of cells for aerospace applications • Understanding the degradation modes under representative conditions • Determine characteristic metrics to identify the condition of cells across the full operational range • Actively manage collaborations, attend meetings and report to partners as required • Contribute to the drafting and submission of reports for the funding bodies and scientific literature, where appropriate. • Contribute to the overall activities of the research team and Department, as required.

About you

This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic and ambitious experimental researcher with interests in batteries, energy materials, materials characterisation and electrochemistry to undertake a research position as part of collaboration with an industrial partner focussed on the aerospace sector. The post holder will contribute to the development of important new insights into the application of batteries in the aerospace sector and will work closely with other researchers to develop these concepts. The successful candidate will have significant experience in a research environment and have excellent laboratory skills, with experience testing electrochemical systems being particularly desirable. Computational experience is not essential, but the candidate should be proficient in data analysis and interpretation. Prior knowledge of batteries, materials characterisation techniques, spectroscopy and electrochemical diagnostics is a strong advantage. You should hold (or shortly expect to obtain) a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or a closely related discipline. You must be motivated, independent and hard-working with a strong research/technical background in areas relevant to this project: particularly electrochemical testing and characterisation. Additionally, you should be comfortable working as part of a wider team and presenting results & developments to industrial partners. Peer reviewed publications in relevant fields are a requirement. The post is funded for 2.5 years (full length of the post will depend on the offered salary). A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of this page. If you have any queries regarding the vacancy or the application process, please contact Dr. James Robinson at j.b.robinson@ucl.ac.uk.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits some of which are below: 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE) Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan On-Site nursery On-site gym Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service Discounted medical insurance

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here : https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/