Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mechanical Testing of Solid-State Batteries

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will work in the Department of Materials at the University of Oxford, under the supervision of Professor David Armstrong and in collaboration with the Oxford Materials SOLBAT research team.

You will manage your own academic research and associated administrative activities, coordinating multiple aspects of the project to meet deadlines and research objectives. You will adapt and develop scientific techniques and experimental protocols, undertake testing and analysis of scientific data, and contribute to the development of new research ideas and funding proposals. You will also prepare scientific reports and journal publications, present research findings at meetings and conferences, and collaborate with colleagues across partner institutions.

This full‑time post, working 37.5 hours per week, is available on a fixed‑term basis until 31 March 2027 and may be extended for up to 3 years.

This project involves collaboration with other universities and as part of a team of more than 30 co‑investigators, researchers and PhD students we are working on understanding the fundamental issues for solid‑state batteries. This role will contribute key measurements on mechanical behaviour.

You will hold, or be close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in Materials Science or a closely related discipline, together with relevant experience in the field of micro‑mechanical testing.

• Strong publication record relevant to the areas outlined in the role description.
• Specialist knowledge sufficient to contribute effectively within established research programmes.
• Excellent communication skills, including preparation of publications, presentation of research findings and proposals, and representation of the research group at meetings.

Desirable experience includes:

• Independently managing a discrete area of a research project.
• Interest in teaching or training others.
• Experience working with solid‑state battery materials and micromechanical technique development.