PhD in physical chemistry: sustainable electrodes for next-generation energy storage

About the Project

Project Overview: We have a vacancy for a PhD student working in the area of physical chemistry. While lithium dominates current battery technology, there is considerable drive to move away from lithium salts to more abundant or lower cost alternatives. Alternatives such as zinc and sodium have been proposed, which are low cost, abundant and non-toxic. Previously these alternatives were not so strongly pursued due to their poor performance when compared to lithium, but recent work utilising aqueous electrolytes (so-called “water-in-salt electrolytes” or WiSEs) has rejuvenated interest in these alternative materials. WiSEs have performance that can approach that of conventional lithium-ion batteries, raising the possibility of safer, more environmentally friendly batteries that maintain a high energy density. However, challenges remain, particularly around the design of optimised electrodes for these aqueous systems, which are prone to parasitic reactions.

This project will therefore use a combination of lab-based electrochemistry, state-of-the-art neutron and x-ray reflectivity methods and atomic force microscopy to understand the structure and behaviour of these new battery electrode materials, both under static conditions and under applied potential. This information will be used to help design the next generation of green battery electrodes. There will be opportunities to write proposals for instrument time at large scattering facilities (Diamond, ISIS etc.) and to take part in experiments that will contribute directly or indirectly to the PhD project.

Informal enquiries are welcome: please contact Dr James Hallett (j.e.hallett@reading.ac.uk) directly and include a CV. https://www.reading.ac.uk/chemistry/staff/dr-james-hallett

University of Reading: The University of Reading, located west of London, England, is ranked at 194 globally, according to the QS World University Rankings 2026. 98% of research at the University is of international standing (REF 2021, combining the University’s world leading, internationally excellent and internationally recognised submissions). The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 120 hectares of beautiful, award-winning parkland, less than a 30-minute train ride to London Paddington and is approximately 30 miles from London Heathrow airport.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving specialist supervision. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that can help support your career aspirations. If you need to develop your academic English skills before you start your studies, then the University has an excellent International Study and Language Institute which can help with this.

Eligibility: · Applicants should have a good bachelor’s degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) or equivalent)/master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics or a strongly-related discipline. · International applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional English courses that can help with meeting these requirements. The University of Reading is committed to a policy of equal opportunities and non-discriminatory treatment for all members of its community.

How to apply: Submit an application for a PhD in Chemistry via our online application system.

Enquiries: Dr. James Hallett, email: j.e.hallett@reading.ac

Funding Notes

We welcome applications from self-funded students worldwide for this project. If you are applying to an international funding scheme, we encourage you to get in contact as we may be able to support you in your application.