Research Associate in Materials Modelling

We are looking to appoint two Research Associates in the modelling of solid-state battery materials in the Ion Transport and Interfaces Group of Dr. James A. Dawson at Newcastle University. Each position is initially for 2 years with the possibility of extension to 4 years.

The first of the positions is focused on cathode materials for solid-state batteries. Specifically, you will use atomistic modelling to explore both the intrinsic properties of state-of-the-art cathodes (e.g., LiNiO2, NMC and LiFePO4) and their stability and direct interaction with a range of solid electrolytes. This will involve the creation of both implicit and explicit interfacial models.

For the second position, you will be responsible for developing microstructural models of topical solid electrolytes (oxides, sulphides and halides) to probe their properties as a function of, for example, particle size, densification and porosity. This will be achieved using a combination of density functional theory, classical molecular dynamics, machine learning approaches and other complementary computational methods.

You will be involved in a large UKRI Frontier Research Grant ("AMPed") that will be carried out in collaboration with world-leading experimental partners in the UK, Europe and North America. Our ambition is to develop and apply state-of-the-art computational and experimental techniques to provide a fundamental understanding of structure, ion transport and interfaces in solid electrolytes for clean energy applications. Such an understanding will allow for the design of enhanced solid-state batteries and other energy devices.

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

£34,866 to £45,163 per annum.