Purpose of the Role

Join Agratas – Powering Progress with Precision
Job Title: Principal Characterisation Scientist – Multi Technique

Location: Oxford, Milton Park, UK
Department: Technology / Cell R&D

The Opportunity

Agratas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, is designing, developing, and delivering cutting-edge lithium-ion batteries to accelerate the clean energy transition. As we scale our global footprint and deepen our R&D capabilities, we are seeking a Principal Characterisation Scientist to join our Advanced Materials Characterisation Team at our Oxford-based Cell R&D facility.

This is a senior, hands-on leadership role, responsible for the multi-technique characterisation of Li-ion battery materials, coordinating a suite of tools (e.g. PSD, ICP, XRD, DSC, TGA, SEM, advanced titrations), and managing a high-performing team of scientists and technicians. You’ll support a range of exciting projects from small-cell prototyping to next-gen cell development—delivering the insights that shape our products and strategies.

Key Responsibility Areas

• Characterisation Strategy & Execution
  Lead the development and application of materials characterisation methods for cathode/anode materials, electrolytes, additives, and full cell components.

• Laboratory Leadership
  Manage and coach a growing team of scientists and technicians. Oversee lab operations, ensure best practices, and develop SOPs, work instructions, and method validation protocols (Gauge R&R, etc.).

• Method Development
  Drive innovation in characterisation methods for both commercial and novel Li-ion materials. Work hands-on with lab tools and guide implementation across sites (Oxford and Bangalore).

• Cross-Functional Support
  Collaborate closely with R&D, Cell Development, Process Engineering, and QC teams to ensure materials characterisation aligns with product requirements and cell performance goals.

• Digital Systems & Data Management
  Lead the transition to electronic lab notebooks (ELN) and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for seamless, compliant data capture and reporting.

• Strategic Partnerships
  Build and maintain external relationships with research institutions and third-party labs to access advanced testing methods and stay at the forefront of battery material science.

• Reporting & Insight Delivery
  Create and review technical reports, present findings, and provide strategic recommendations to senior stakeholders across the business.

Job Context

Must-Have Experience

• Industrial experience in lithium-ion battery R&D, manufacturing, or OEM environments.

• Proven leadership in analytical laboratories, with experience in lab operations, team management, and method deployment.

• Deep understanding of materials characterisation techniques (e.g. XRD, ICP, SEM, TGA, DSC, PSD) and their application to Li-ion cells.

• Track record of solving real-world challenges in battery materials development and quality control.

• Familiarity with 5S practices, Six Sigma methodologies, and data-driven problem-solving.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.

Ideal Background

• Degree (preferably PhD) in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Electrochemistry.

• Experience working at industry-leading battery developers or manufacturers.

• Experience setting up or working within digital lab data systems (LIMS/ELN).

• Ability to collaborate across cross-functional R&D, engineering, and manufacturing environments.

Diversity & Inclusion at Agratas

We believe innovation thrives in an inclusive environment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team.