Postdoctoral Research Associate in Battery Modelling

Contract type: Fixed-term - (15 months)

We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to undertake research in battery modeling within the Nextrode Project of the Faraday Institution, to work with Professor Jon Chapman at the Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford. This is a 15-month fixed term position, until 30 September 2026, though it may be extended if additional funding is forthcoming. The successful candidate will be expected to be in post by 1st July 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The postholder will work on developing and implementing models of structured electrodes, in which the local composition (active material, binder, etc) and overall microstructure is controlled to vary spatially within the electrodes. These models will then be used to find a design that maximises the overall performance balance (energy, power, lifetime, cost, etc) of the electrode and the battery. The open source software PyBaMM, along with the optimisation suite PyBOP, have been developed as part of the companion Faraday Multiscale Modelling Project. The postholder will be expected to familiarise themselves with PyBaMM and PyBOP, in order to implement any models developed into that framework, and to take advantage of these tools to produce optimal designs.

Applicants should have skills in modelling, familiarity with partial differential equations, and be familiar with python. They will have, or be close to completing, a PhD in mathematics or a related discipline, and possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline of theoretical mechanics, mathematical modelling, and numerical simulations of PDE to work within established research programmes in battery modelling. Preference will be given to applicants with prior experience of optimisation, PyBaMM and/or electrochemistry.

 We proudly hold a departmental Athena SWAN Silver Award and an institutional Race Equality Charter Bronze Award, which guide our progress towards advancing racial and gender equality. As part of our strategic aim to improve staff equality and diversity, we would particularly welcome applications from women and BAME candidates, who are currently under-represented in positions of this type within the department.

Please direct informal enquiries to the Recruitment Coordinator (email: recruitment@maths.ox.ac.uk), quoting vacancy reference 178846.

Applicants will be selected for interview purely based on their ability to satisfy the selection criteria as outlined in full in the job description. You will be required to upload a statement setting out how you meet the selection criteria, a curriculum vitae including full list of publications, a statement of research interests, and the contact details of two referees as part of your online application. (NOTE: Applicants are responsible for contacting two of their referees and making sure that their letters are sent to references@maths.ox.ac.uk  by the closing date).

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. To apply for this vacancy and for further information, including a job description and selection criteria, please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

Only applications received before 12.00 noon UK time on Wednesday, 30th April 2025 can be considered.

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