Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Li-ion Battery Degradation

Location: Parks Road, Oxford

Contract: Fixed term (3 years in the first instance)

We are seeking a well organised and highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant in the group of Professor Robert Weatherup, to join a major interdisciplinary project funded by the Faraday Institution, investigating degradation mechanisms in next generation Li-ion batteries.

You will perform research into degradation reactions occurring at electrode-electrolyte interfaces in next generation Li-ion batteries, which play a pivotal role in determining real-world battery performance. You will combine your expertise in electrochemical characterisation of Li-ion batteries with the state-of-the-art facilities for energy storage research at Oxford, and advanced characterisation techniques available at the nearby Harwell Campus. This will involve the application of state-of-the-art X-ray spectroscopy methods (Operando XPS/XAS, Hard XPS) to probe the interfacial reactions occurring in Li-ion batteries.

Further information about the research group can be found at: emi.materials.ox.ac.uk

This is a full-time, fixed-term post for three years and is based at the Department of Materials.

About you:

• You will hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in chemistry, physics, materials science, engineering or a related discipline.
• You will have experience in the electrochemical testing of Li-ion batteries or related energy storage devices, alongside experience of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, or related techniques.
• You will be able to analyse and interpret complex experimental data, manage your own research activities effectively, and deliver high-quality results to agreed deadlines.
• Strong communication skills are essential, including the ability to write for publication, present research proposals, and work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.
• You will be comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.

How to apply

You will be required to upload your CV and a supporting statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include three short sections (~100 words each):

(a) A description of your top publication, stating the key achievement and how you contributed to this

(b) Previous experience in battery electrochemistry

(c) Previous experience in interface-sensitive characterization

CVs alone will not be considered. Please do not attach any manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets or certificates as these will not be considered as part of your application.

Only applications received online by 12:00 midday (BST) on Friday 15th May 2026 can be considered. Interviews are expected to take place online on Tuesday 26th May 2026.