Research Fellow on the Multi-Scale Modelling of Batteries

The University of Southampton, a leading Russell Group University on the south coast of the UK, invites applications to fill one postdoctoral Research Fellow position in the area of developing methods for the multi-scale modelling of batteries. This project is part of the large interdisciplinary Multi-Scale Modelling consortium on batteries within the Faraday Institution (http://www.faraday.ac.uk/ ) with strong links to continuum modelling work, and to experimental structural and electrochemical studies. It will be based in the Skylaris research group in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.

The project will involve work in areas such as the development of theory and code for describing the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) with large-scale DFT and DFTB calculations and machine learning force fields, coupling atomistic simulations with coarser levels of description such as continuum models, and advanced methods for describing processes in electrochemical interfaces under applied voltage. The appointee in this position will be expected to engage in collaborations with other consortium members to test and deploy the new methods so they can be used in exemplar large-scale simulations of battery electrode materials and interfaces to study processes such as transport and intercalation of ions, degradation mechanisms and solvent effects.

Applicants should have a PhD or equivalent professional qualifications and experience in computational chemistry, physics, condensed matter theory or related field. Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Applicants should have demonstrated research excellence through publications in the development and application of DFT and other methods. They should also have excellent team-working and communication skills, enjoy a challenge and thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. A commitment to work together with colleagues in other fields and institutes and with industrial collaborators is a pre-requisite. The position is available in the first instance from January 2025 and is expected to run until the end of March 2026.

Potential applicants are advised to contact Prof Chris-Kriton Skylaris  (c.skylaris@soton.ac.uk) for more details.

At the University of Southampton, we value diversity and equality.  The University recognises that employees may wish to have working patterns that fit with their caring responsibilities or work-life balance.  Due consideration will also be given to applicants who have had career breaks for reasons including maternity, paternity or adoption leave, disability or illness.  Both the University of Southampton and Chemistry and Chemical Engineering are proud to hold Athena Swan Silver Awards.

Advert information