Purpose of the Role
Senior Solid‑State Scientist – Oxford (High‑Impact, Strategic Role)
Location: Oxford, UK
Role Type: Full‑time, Permanent
Seniority: Senior / Expert Level
We are expanding our Oxford R&D hub with a high‑impact hire: an exceptional Senior Solid‑State Scientist who will play a defining role in shaping our next generation of solid‑state battery technology. With extremely limited headcount, this is a rare opportunity to join at a senior level and directly influence scientific direction, experimental strategy, and technical breakthroughs.
If you thrive in an environment where your expertise truly matters, where you can drive innovation without layers of bureaucracy, and where your work directly accelerates the future of energy storage, we want to hear from you.
About the Role
As our Senior Solid‑State Scientist, you will lead research into solid‑state materials, interfaces, and cell architectures. You will design and execute experiments, guide junior scientists (where applicable), and collaborate closely with materials, electrochemistry, and engineering teams to translate scientific insights into manufacturable solutions.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both hands‑on experimentation and high‑level scientific strategy, and who is motivated by the opportunity to make a disproportionate impact within a small, focused team.
Key Responsibility Areas
Key Responsibilities
• Lead research into solid electrolytes, interfacial stability, and solid‑state cell architectures
• Design and execute experimental plans with minimal oversight
• Develop hypotheses, analyse data, and drive scientific decision‑making
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate materials into prototype cells
• Identify and solve complex scientific challenges related to ionic conductivity, dendrite suppression, and long‑term stability
• Contribute to IP generation, publications, and technical roadmaps
• Provide technical leadership within a small, high‑performing R&D environment
Job Context
About You
You will excel in this role if you are a scientist who combines deep technical expertise with independence, creativity, and a drive to push boundaries.
Essential Experience
• PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Physics, or related field
• Strong track record in solid‑state battery research (industry or academic)
• Hands‑on experience with solid electrolytes (sulfides, oxides, polymers, composites)
• Deep understanding of interfacial phenomena and failure mechanisms
• Proven ability to design and run complex experiments independently
• Strong data analysis and scientific communication skills
Desirable
• Experience with cell assembly (coin, pouch, or custom formats)
• Knowledge of advanced characterisation techniques (XRD, SEM, EIS, XPS, etc.)
• Experience in fast‑paced R&D or start‑up environments
• Ability to mentor junior scientists or technicians
Why Join Us?
• High autonomy, high impact: With limited headcount, your work directly shapes our scientific direction
• Cutting‑edge research: Work on the most exciting challenges in solid‑state batteries
• Collaborative environment: Small, expert team with minimal bureaucracy
• Career‑defining opportunity: Build and influence a world‑class solid‑state programme from the ground up
• Oxford location: Join a growing innovation hub with access to world‑leading academic and industrial partners
