Purpose of the Role
Principal Electrolyte Material Engineer – Cell Design
Location: Oxford, UK
Function: Cell Technology – Cell Design
Reports to: Materials Manager (UK), Cell Technology / Cell Development
Employment Type: Full‑time
Agratas is building the next generation of battery technologies, and we’re looking for exceptional people to help shape the future of sustainable energy. As a Principal Electrolyte Material Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in defining, optimising, and managing the active materials that underpin our advanced cell designs. This is a unique opportunity to influence material strategy from concept through to commercialisation, working at the forefront of innovation in a fast‑growing global organisation.
The Opportunity
In this senior technical role, you will lead the selection, characterisation, and optimisation of cathode active materials, collaborating closely with cross‑functional teams across cell design, manufacturing, procurement, supplier quality, and external material suppliers. Your expertise will directly impact the performance, safety, and competitiveness of Agratas’ battery technologies.
This position is ideal for a scientist or engineer with deep battery materials expertise who thrives in a collaborative, high‑innovation environment.
Key Responsibility Areas
Active Material Strategy & Selection
• Lead market surveys, materials screening, parameter optimisation, and down‑selection for cathode active materials (NMC, NCA, LFP, etc.).
• Engage with Tier 1 and emerging suppliers to align on material characteristics and performance requirements.
• Act as a subject matter expert on structure–property relationships and commercial material optimisation.
Material Characterisation & Testing
• Define analytical tools and methods for evaluating cathode active materials.
• Lead the development and deployment of novel analytical techniques.
• Support quality tool selection and implementation.
Formulation & Cross‑Functional Support
• Provide technical input into binder, conductive additive, and formulation down‑selection for cathode electrode design.
• Support electrolyte development by identifying material sensitivities and enabling solvent/additive chemistry decisions.
Supply Chain & Quality Support
• Partner with procurement and supplier quality teams to define and control material specifications.
• Support supplier audits, DFMEA activities, and specification management.
Manufacturing & Production Support
• Define optimal materials handling, formulation, and processing conditions for manufacturing teams.
• Ensure materials‑related milestones are met across development and production cycles.
Documentation & Reporting
• Own and maintain material specifications.
• Deliver periodic technical reports and updates to internal stakeholders.
Job Context
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
• Deep expertise in cathode active materials, including structure–property relationships, synthesis routes, processability, and electrochemical behaviour.
• Strong proficiency in materials and electrochemical characterisation techniques (SEM, XRD, PSD, cycling, dq/dv, EIS).
• Awareness of global cathode material suppliers and emerging market trends.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and optimise formulations.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with experience working across multidisciplinary R&D and engineering teams.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying current with advancements in Li‑ion battery materials.
Qualifications
• Degree or PhD in Electrochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience in battery material development or cell technology is essential.
Why Join Agratas?
At Agratas, you’ll be part of a mission‑driven organisation developing world‑leading battery technologies that power a cleaner, more sustainable future. You’ll work with experts across the globe, influence critical material decisions, and contribute to innovations that will shape the next generation of energy storage.
If you’re passionate about advanced materials and want to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly evolving industry, we’d love to hear from you.
