Purpose of the Role
Characterisation Scientist
Location: Oxford, Milton Park
Function: Technology / Cell R&D
Reporting to: Principal Characterisation Scientist
Agratas is on a mission to power a more sustainable future. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, we are designing, developing, and manufacturing cutting-edge lithium-ion batteries for the mobility and energy storage sectors. Backed by Tata’s legacy and scale, we’re a bold and ambitious scale-up with a start-up mindset – and we’re just getting started.
At our state-of-the-art Cell R&D Facility in Oxfordshire, we’re building something special. Now, we’re looking to expand our talented Advanced Materials Characterisation Team with a versatile Characterisation Scientist who will develop test procedures and characterisation approaches, in the investigation of Lithium-ion battery materials.
The Opportunity
In this hands‑on role, you’ll develop and deploy advanced characterisation methods to deepen our understanding of lithium‑ion battery materials. You’ll work across a diverse R&D portfolio, supporting the development of next‑generation cell technologies and contributing directly to the performance, safety, and competitiveness of our products.
You’ll operate a wide range of analytical tools—such as moisture and acid auto‑titration, particle size analysis, gas adsorption, microscopy, and thermal analysis—while also helping to commission new equipment and expand our in‑house capabilities.
Key Responsibility Areas
• Conduct chemical, physical, electrical, and mechanical characterisation of lithium‑ion battery materials and intermediates.
• Deliver robust, reliable laboratory measurements and contribute to technical reports and recommendations.
• Analyse material property changes during formation and electrochemical cycling using advanced techniques.
• Collaborate with electrochemists, scientists, and engineers to support new materials development.
• Develop methods and SOPs, including working with equipment suppliers to embed best practices.
• Manage day‑to‑day operation of characterisation equipment, ensuring safe and compliant laboratory practices.
Job Context
What We’re Looking For
- Industry work experience in battery R&D or battery manufacturing.
- Advanced Materials Characterisation Knowledge of a variety of materials characterisation techniques. Experience in materials characterisation and analysis in a wet lab environment, especially related to battery materials. Ownership of equipment and workflows relating to objectives.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong communication skills to work effectively within a team of technique specialists in a battery materials characterisation laboratory/ R&D lab alongside contributing to longer term R&D.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to accurately prepare materials and follow experimental protocols. Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems/ Electronic Lab Notebook systems or other Lab data management systems in an R&D setting would be beneficial.
- Safety Protocols: Familiarity with lab safety procedures, including chemical handling, and waste disposal.
- Organisation & Inventory Management: Proficient in scheduling activities, managing supplies and maintaining an organised lab environment.
Ideal Background
• Degree in materials science, chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Experience in a battery materials testing lab within a fast‑paced industrial R&D environment.
• Exposure to leading battery developers or manufacturers.
Why Join Us?
At Agratas, you’ll help shape the future of energy storage—working with world‑class experts in a purpose‑driven, high‑growth environment. We offer competitive compensation, flexible banding for exceptional talent, and clear opportunities for career progression.
We’re committed to building an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and identities. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please let our Talent Acquisition team know.
Apply Now
Ready to help accelerate the clean energy transition? We’d love to hear from you.
