Purpose of the Role
Principal Scientist – Characterisation (Technical Expert)
Location: Oxford, Milton Park
Function: Technology / Cell R&D
Grade: 4
Reports to: Head of Materials Characterisation
Line Management: Yes
Power the Future With Us
Agratas is on a mission to accelerate a cleaner, more sustainable future. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, we design, develop, and manufacture next‑generation lithium‑ion batteries for mobility and energy storage applications.
At our state‑of‑the‑art Cell R&D Facility in Oxfordshire, we’re building something extraordinary. Now, we’re looking for a Principal Scientist – Characterisation to join our Advanced Materials Characterisation Team as a technical expert in materials behaviour, diagnostics, and in‑situ/operando analysis.
This is a senior, high‑impact role where you’ll shape the tools, techniques, and insights that underpin our next‑generation battery technologies. If you want to work at the forefront of innovation with the resources of a global organisation and the agility of a start‑up, this is your moment.
Key Responsibility Areas
What You’ll Do
As a technical leader in the team, you will:
• Serve as the in‑house expert in spectroscopy, in‑situ electrochemical analysis, and battery interphase behaviour, including next‑generation lithium‑ion materials.
• Lead the design, development, and delivery of in‑situ and operando analytical capabilities across the R&D function.
• Develop methods to analyse electrode interphases, gassing behaviour, and materials changes during formation and cycling using FT‑IR, Raman, GC‑MS, SEM, DEMS and more.
• Stay ahead of emerging diagnostic technologies and critically assess their relevance and value to Agratas.
• Build and expand strategic partnerships to access advanced testing methodologies and novel characterisation tools.
• Translate business needs into technical strategies, including business cases for new equipment and collaborations.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with scientists, electrochemical engineers, and programme teams across the Cell R&D portfolio.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of scientists and technicians.
• Produce high‑quality technical reports and recommendations for senior leadership.
Job Context
What You Bring
• 3–5 years of experience in battery R&D, manufacturing, or EV OEMs or equivalent experience in an industry‑focused academic environment.
• Proven leadership in a battery materials characterisation laboratory, including strategic R&D contributions and troubleshooting.
• Deep expertise across a broad range of characterisation techniques applied to active materials, electrodes, electrolytes, and Li‑ion cell chemistry challenges.
• A data‑driven mindset, ideally with experience in LIMS, ELNs, or other R&D data management systems.
Ideal Background
• PhD or Master’s in Materials Science, Chemistry, Electrochemistry, or related field.
• Experience managing technical teams in a fast‑paced industrial R&D environment.
• Prior experience with leading battery developers or manufacturers.
Why Agratas?
Working at Agratas means shaping the future of energy storage from the inside. Here’s what sets us apart:
Impact That Matters
Your work will directly influence the next generation of battery technology—technology that will power cleaner transport, greener energy systems, and a more sustainable world.
A Unique Blend of Start‑Up Energy and Global Strength
We combine the agility, pace, and innovation culture of a start‑up with the stability, backing, and long‑term vision of Tata Sons.
A Place to Grow
We offer competitive compensation, flexible banding for exceptional talent, and clear pathways for career progression in a rapidly expanding global business.
A Culture That Celebrates You
We believe innovation thrives when people can be their authentic selves. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment. If you need adjustments during the recruitment process, our Talent Acquisition team is here to help.
Apply Now
Ready to help shape the future of energy storage? We’d love to hear from you.
