RA in Battery Materials Modelling (Newcastle, GB)

Research Associate - Battery Materials Modelling at Newcastle University

This opportunity at Newcastle University offers a compelling position for a driven Research Associate focusing on the cutting-edge field of battery materials modelling. Working within the esteemed Ion Transport and Interfaces Group, led by Dr. James A. Dawson, this role promises an enriching experience at a globally recognised institution. If you're passionate about advancing energy storage solutions and eager to contribute to impactful research, this could be the ideal next step in your career.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Prestigious Research Environment: Join a leading university with a strong reputation for research excellence. This role is part of a significant UKRI Frontier Research Grant, demonstrating the project's importance and potential for high-impact publications.
• Collaborative & International Exposure: You will have the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with world-leading experimental partners, both within the UK (including the Faraday Institution) and internationally across Europe and North America. This fosters a rich learning environment and expands your professional network.
• Cutting-Edge Methodologies: The position emphasizes the use of advanced computational techniques, including density functional theory, ab initio and classical molecular dynamics, and machine learning approaches. This provides a fantastic platform to deepen your expertise in state-of-the-art modelling.
• Career Development & Mentorship: The role involves authoring and co-authoring publications in high-quality academic journals, presenting at national and international events, and contributing to the training of students. This will significantly enhance your research profile and communication skills.
• Attractive Compensation & Benefits: Newcastle University offers a competitive salary range of £35,608 - £46,049 per annum. Beyond salary, you can expect a generous holiday package (with the option to buy more), excellent pension schemes, and a comprehensive suite of health and wellbeing initiatives designed to support you.
• Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: Newcastle University is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. They hold a Gold Athena Swan award, a Race Equality Charter Bronze award, and are a Disability Confident employer. This signifies a commitment to supporting and celebrating a diverse workforce.
• Supportive Research Group: You'll be working within a group that values collaboration and provides opportunities for professional development, including training and assistance for students, indicating a supportive team dynamic.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Specialisation Potential: The role offers flexibility, allowing you to focus on atomistic modelling of liquid and solid electrolytes, cathode materials, or electrolyte-electrode interfaces, depending on your interests and expertise. This allows for targeted development within a specialised area of battery research.
• Skill Enhancement: This position is ideal for candidates looking to solidify and expand their skills in computational modelling, specifically within the domain of battery materials. Proficiency in Python programming, molecular dynamics, and electronic structure simulations are essential and will be further honed.
• Research Output & Dissemination: A significant aspect of the role involves disseminating research findings. Candidates should be comfortable with scientific writing, publication, and presenting their work. This is crucial for career progression in academia and research-intensive industries.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The project's success hinges on strong collaboration with experimental partners. Candidates should possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with researchers from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
• Fixed-Term Contract with Extension Possibility: The position is initially for 2 years with the possibility of extension. While this offers a dedicated period for focused research, candidates should consider their long-term career plans and explore potential funding avenues for continued research.
• Proactive Engagement: To be successful, candidates will need to demonstrate initiative in designing and executing simulations, problem-solving, and staying abreast of the latest technological advancements in their field.

This Research Associate position at Newcastle University presents an exceptional opportunity for individuals passionate about computational modelling and its application to next-generation energy storage. It offers a robust research environment, significant collaborative potential, and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing and development.