Imperial College London

About the role

Are you a researcher driven to understand and predict the fundamental mechanisms limiting lithium-ion battery performance?

We are recruiting a Research Associate in Lithium-Ion Battery Modelling to work on the Faraday Institution’s Multi-Scale Modelling project, developing advanced models of cathode degradation, electrolyte decomposition and safety-critical processes. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to internationally leading research shaping the future of energy storage.

What you would be doing

In this role, you will develop and apply continuum-level electrochemical models to better understand and predict degradation in lithium-ion batteries, with a particular focus on high-nickel cathode materials. Your work will investigate the coupled mechanisms of cathode degradation, electrolyte decomposition and the safety implications arising from these interacting processes.

You will use and extend PyBaMM, which is an open-source Python-based battery modelling framework (https://pybamm.org/), contributing new physics and degradation sub-models to advance its predictive capability. You will collaborate closely with researchers across Imperial, the wider Multi-Scale Modelling project and more broadly across Faraday Institution projects, working as part of a highly interdisciplinary team to translate fundamental insight into robust, safety-aware battery models.

What we are looking for

We’re seeking a motivated and collaborative researcher with experience aligned to continuum battery modelling and degradation science. The points below give an overview of the profile we’re looking for:

• A PhD in engineering, mathematics, physics, materials science, electrochemistry or other closely related disciplines.
• Experience in lithium-ion batteries, battery modelling or electrochemical systems, with an understanding of degradation mechanisms (e.g. cathode ageing, electrolyte decomposition or safety-related phenomena).
• Demonstrated ability to develop, implement and analyse physics-based or continuum-level models.
• Strong numerical and computational skills (e.g. Python or similar scientific programming languages).
• Experience with collaborative coding practices, such as version control, code review, documentation and working within shared codebases (ideally open-source).
• Ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary and multi-institution research teams.
• Strong analytical thinking skills, with the ability to communicate complex technical ideas clearly in writing and discussion.
• A proactive and independent approach to research, balanced with a willingness to contribute to shared project goals.

We also welcome applications from strong computational or mathematical modellers from related fields who can demonstrate clear transferrable skills and a genuine interest in applying their expertise to battery degradation and safety.

What we can offer you

This role provides the opportunity to develop your research profile within a globally recognised centre for battery innovation. As part of the team, you will benefit from:

• Joining the Electrochemical Science and Engineering Group (https://www.imperial.ac.uk/electrochem-sci-eng/) at Imperial College London, a leading international hub for battery research and electrochemical engineering.
• Contributing to the Faraday Institution’s Multi-Scale Modelling Project, working within a nationally coordinated programme tackling the most pressing challenges in battery science.
• Playing a key role in advancing PyBaMM (https://pybamm.org/), one of the world’s leading open-source battery modelling frameworks, and building visibility within an active global user and developer community.
• Gaining experience in collaborative, interdisciplinary research across modelling, materials science and electrochemistry.
• Opportunities to publish high-impact research, present at international conferences and build a strong academic and/or industry-facing profile.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term position based in the Dyson School of Design Engineering, supervised by Dr Billy Wu (https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/billy.wu).

The post is available to start as soon as possible and is funded until 31 March 2030 (for up to 48 months).

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Dr. Billy Wu – billy.wu@imperial.ac.uk.

Available documents

Attached documents are available under links. Clicking a document link will initialize its download.

• download: ENG03808 Research Associate in Lithium-ion Battery Modelling Imperial Job Description.pdf
• download: Employee Benefits Booklet.pdf