An exciting opportunity exists within the battery manufacturing research group at the University of Sheffield. The post holder will work on the Xerode - Dry Printing Accelerator research grant funded by the University of Sheffield.
The electrode in a lithium-ion battery control many crucial performance characteristics of the final cell. State of the art electrode manufacturing uses a wet mixing and coating process to deposit the electrode. This is a highly productive process but uses very large amounts of solvent and factory footprint to accommodate the drying process.
This project aims to overcome limitations of the current process, providing a method to print dry, formulated electrodes directly onto a current collector, with positional and compositional printing control for advanced customer-driven designed electrodes. As a Research Associate working on Xerode you will research and develop novel particle engineering and deposition techniques, to produce powders suitable for dry printing of lithium-ion battery electrodes.
Main duties and responsibilities
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Carry out a plan of experimental research, contributing as a team member to the group and Xerode project. Develop new and/or modify existing particle formation techniques to generate particles with improved processing attributes, novel internal micro-structures, and superior electrochemical performance. Apply and develop methodology for the characterisation of these particles and their performance in electrodes.
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Be proactive to plan, manage the project meetings and execute the project.
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Report to the project leader and manage and prioritise own workload within agreed objectives to meet the deadline of all milestones of the project.
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Work with group members to develop processes, quality metrics, make and test electrochemical cells and interpret results in collaboration with scientific staff
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Take a lead role in the preparation of patents, manuscripts and technical reports.
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Present results and make recommendations via briefings, presentations and written reports, to facilitate the interpretation of specific issues or problems and to support scientific decision-making. This will include speaking to general or expert audiences in academia and industry.
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Be responsible for requisitioning consumables, procurement of equipment and services etc. for the research project, ensuring that spending is within the required budget and conforms to financial rules.
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Input as a team member to Department, Faculty and/or University administrative activities.
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Engage in training and continuous professional development.
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Travel (where possible) to present results and communicate with stakeholders at relevant meetings and conferences.
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Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and are respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Closing Date: 22/09/2025
For more information and to apply visit https://jobsite.sheffield.ac.uk/job/Research-Associate-in-Particle-Engineering-for-Dry-Electrode-Manufacturing/1367-en_GB
