Purpose of the Role
Separator Material Engineer – Cell Design
Location: Agratas R&D Centre, Oxford, UK
Function: Cell Technology | Cell Design
Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Reports to: Materials Manager (UK) – Cell Technology / Cell Development
The Opportunity
Agratas, the Tata Group’s global battery business, is building one of Europe’s most advanced battery cell R&D teams—and we want you to be part of it. Based at our new Oxford R&D Centre, the Separator Material Engineer will play a key role in the design and development of separator materials that meet the performance, safety, and scalability demands of next-generation lithium-ion batteries.
In this role, you’ll lead the evaluation, selection, optimization, and deployment of separator materials—working cross-functionally with internal teams and external suppliers to accelerate cell innovation and industrialization.
Key Responsibility Areas
Separator Material Selection
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Lead global surveys, benchmarking, and screening of separator materials and coatings.
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Drive technical engagement with leading and emerging suppliers to ensure alignment on specifications and performance targets.
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Advise on material down-selection based on structure–property relationships and commercial viability.
Material Characterization & Testing
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Define and lead analytical testing methods (e.g., porosity, permeability, ion conductivity, thermal behavior).
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Develop and implement new tools and techniques for characterizing separator materials.
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Support quality engineering with tools and data to inform decision-making.
Formulation & Design Support
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Advise on separator film types, coatings, and processing methods to support electrode compatibility and full-cell performance.
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Collaborate with JR assembly teams to optimize separator performance and integration.
Supply Chain Support
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Define material specifications and support procurement teams with supplier assessments and quality audits.
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Contribute to DFMEA, material qualification, and supplier development initiatives.
Production Support
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Provide input on materials handling, storage, and processing requirements for scale-up and manufacturing.
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Bridge R&D and operations by ensuring materials are production-ready.
Documentation & Reporting
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Own and maintain material specifications and reports.
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Deliver regular updates and technical documentation to internal stakeholders.
Job Context
Technical Expertise
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In-depth knowledge of separator materials, coatings, and manufacturing processes (e.g., polyolefin films, ceramic coatings).
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Proficiency with analytical techniques such as thermal analysis, CH/DCH behavior, ion conductivity, etc.
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Understanding of separator–electrode–electrolyte interactions and safety/performance impacts.
Industry Awareness
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Awareness of key separator suppliers and current/future trends in the global separator materials market.
Analytical & Communication Skills
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Ability to interpret complex data and translate findings into actionable insights.
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Strong verbal and written communication for reporting and collaboration across functions.
Team Player Mindset
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Experience working in cross-functional R&D teams within fast-paced, high-tech environments.
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Passion for clean energy innovation and continuous learning.
Qualifications
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PhD or Master's degree in Electrochemistry, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering.
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Experience in battery materials development, ideally in separator materials or components used in lithium-ion batteries.
Why Join Agratas?
At Agratas, we’re building something transformative. As a Tata Group company, we combine world-class backing with a startup mindset, creating an environment where you can innovate, influence, and grow. Our mission? To power a cleaner, smarter future through advanced battery technologies.
Apply Now
If you're ready to shape the future of battery cell design and play a key role in developing world-leading separator materials, we’d love to hear from you.
Join us at Agratas and be part of a team powering sustainable progress.
