Purpose of the Role

Join Agratas – Pioneering the Future of Energy Storage

Job Title: Principal Cell Scientist – Li-ion Battery Cell (Applied Research)

Location: Oxford, UK
Function / Department: Cell Technology – Applied Research
Reporting to: Head of Applied Research (UK)
Line Management Responsibility: Yes

The Opportunity

Agratas is on a mission to redefine the energy landscape through cutting-edge battery cell innovation. We’re looking for a highly driven and visionary Principal Cell Scientist to lead the advanced research and development of lithium-ion (Li-ion) prototype cells.

As a subject-matter expert, you will play a pivotal role in shaping next-generation Li-ion cell technologies, integrating advanced materials and components to achieve exceptional performance, safety, and commercial viability. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable innovation in energy storage, helping us unlock the next wave of high-performance battery solutions for electric vehicles and beyond.

The Principal Cell Scientist will lead advanced research and strategic development of prototype (pre-A) cells for lithium-ion batteries, driving innovation and validation of state-of-the-art and next-generation technologies. This senior role involves not only understanding and integrating (and, in future, perhaps developing) high-performance cell materials and components, but also understanding and mitigating cell failure modes, guiding cross-functional R&D efforts and enabling optimisation of high-performance and cost-effective next-generation cell concepts.

Key Responsibility Areas

Strategic Technical Leadership

• Lead the exploration and integration of state-of-the-art and emerging cell materials (anode, cathode, electrolyte, separator) to deliver high-energy, long-life, and safe Li-ion cells.

• Identify and mitigate failure modes through deep diagnostic and forensic analysis of prototype cells, applying findings to inform production design.

Advanced Cell Understanding

• Design and lead robust experimental programs to evaluate electrochemical, mechanical, physical, and electrical performance of cells and components.

• Ensure high-quality integration and compatibility across all cell components.

Competitiveness & Commercialisation

• Work closely with commercial teams and suppliers to stay ahead of market trends.

• Shape IP strategy, evaluate freedom-to-operate (FTO), and validate technology roadmaps with a view toward mass production, cost-efficiency, and sustainability.

Next-Gen Innovation

• Drive the innovation of future Li-ion technologies, ensuring Agratas remains at the forefront of energy storage.

• Use structured roadmaps and multi-generational planning to develop solutions with long-term commercial impact.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of scientists and engineers, fostering a collaborative culture that thrives on technical excellence, innovation, and commercial focus.

• Collaborate with internal teams across Cell Design, Product and Process Engineering to bring innovative concepts to life.

Data-Driven Optimisation

• Leverage structured experimentation and advanced analytics to continuously improve cell design and performance.

Strategic Planning & Reporting

• Maintain clear documentation of R&D plans, milestones, and results, providing transparent updates to senior leadership.

Job Context

What You'll Bring

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• Deep expertise in Li-ion cell design, integration, and component optimisation.

• Proficient in advanced testing and validation methods (electrochemical, forensic, diagnostic).

• Proven track record of driving innovation in cell technology with industrial application.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.

• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Industrial awareness of the battery landscape, with a commitment to continuous learning.

Qualifications

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.

• Extensive industrial experience in lithium-ion cell development.

Leadership Attributes

• Demonstrated experience in leading multi-skilled technical teams.

• High emotional intelligence, with the ability to mentor, inspire, and influence.
• Organised and goal-oriented, with a strong sense of urgency and delivery focus.

Why Agratas?

Agratas is more than a battery company – we are a team of innovators committed to delivering the clean energy technologies of tomorrow. Backed by Tata Group, we are creating a global battery business that is sustainable, commercially successful, and transformational.

If you're ready to lead game-changing innovation in lithium-ion batteries and help shape the future of electrification, we want to hear from you.