Discovery of inorganic cathode materials and/or solid electrolytes for next generation battery technology

About the Project

This project focuses on the discovery of next generation battery materials through experimental design and compositional exploration. Combining solid-state synthesis, advanced structural characterization, and electrochemical optimization the project will explore novel cathode materials and/or solid electrolytes and offers an opportunity to develop expertise in materials chemistry while collaborating with computational scientists, physicists, and engineers to accelerate clean energy innovation.

Rechargeable batteries play a critical role in enabling the global transition towards clean and sustainable energy technologies. Discovery of new high-performance cathode materials and solid electrolytes is the core challenge to advance these technologies. This project involves the experimental design and compositional exploration of a new class of inorganic materials, detailed characterisation of the materials and full-cell level optimisation of the electrochemical properties and understanding of relevant new mechanisms and chemistries.

The project will combine synthetic solid-state chemistry, advanced structural analysis and measurement of physical and electrochemical properties of new cathode materials and solid electrolytes, enabling the successful candidate to develop a diverse experimental skillset in materials chemistry and battery chemistry. The focus will be on the discovery of new materials and structures with enhanced performance, accelerated by working with computational design experts. Owing to the multi-faceted nature of this dynamic project, the student will work closely with computer scientists, inorganic (electro)chemists, physicists, engineers, and material scientists to discover new inorganic cathode materials and solid electrolytes for batteries. This provides an opportunity to a participate in AI-driven discovery.

Qualifications: Applications are welcomed from students with a 2:1 or higher master’s degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or Materials Science.

This position will remain open until a suitable candidate has been found.Please review our guide on How to apply for a PhD | Postgraduate research | University of Liverpool carefully and complete the online postgraduate research application form to apply for this PhD project.

We want all our Staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, if you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result.

Informal enquiries should be addressed toDr Ruiyong Chen ruiyong.chen@liverpool.ac.uk

Please ensure you include the project title and reference number CCPR171 when applying.