Metal Anode Scientist

Job Title: Metal Anode Engineer – Sodium BatteriesLocation: Cambridge, UKDepartment: R&D / Advanced Battery DevelopmentType: Full-timeAbout the RoleWe are looking for a talented Metal Anode Engineer specializing in sodium-based battery systems to drive the development and optimization of high-performance metallic sodium anodes. This role focuses on interfacial stability, plating/stripping behavior, and dendrite mitigation, supporting next-generation sodium-ion and sodium metal battery technologies.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and develop metallic sodium anodes for advanced battery systems (liquid, semi-solid, and solid-state)Investigate and optimize Na plating/stripping mechanisms to improve coulombic efficiency and cycle lifeAnalyze and engineer solid electrolyte interphases (SEI) for stability and performanceDevelop strategies to suppress dendrite formation and enhance safetyEvaluate compatibility between sodium metal and various electrolytes (liquid, polymer, solid)Conduct electrochemical testing (cycling, EIS, rate capability, symmetric cells, etc.)Perform failure analysis and identify degradation mechanismsCollaborate with electrolyte, cathode, and cell engineering teams to integrate sodium anodes into full cells (including pouch format)Support scale-up from lab experiments to prototype cellsContribute to IP development, technical reports, and publicationsRequired QualificationsMaster’s or PhD in Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldHands-on experience with sodium battery chemistries (sodium-ion or sodium metal)Strong understanding of metal anode behavior, including plating/stripping and interfacial phenomenaExperience with electrochemical characterization techniques (EIS, CV, galvanostatic cycling)Familiarity with air-sensitive material handling (e.g., glovebox operation)Knowledge of SEI formation and interfacial engineeringPreferred QualificationsDirect experience with metallic sodium anodesExperience in dendrite mitigation strategies (coatings, 3D hosts, electrolyte engineering)Background in solid-state or polymer electrolyte systemsExperience with advanced characterization techniques (SEM, XPS, TEM, AFM, etc.)Familiarity with pouch cell assembly and testingTrack record of patents or publications in battery materialsWhat We OfferOpportunity to work on next-generation sodium battery technologiesFast-paced, innovation-driven environmentCompetitive compensation and benefitsStrong potential for career growth and technical leadership