Senior/Scientist – Electrochemist Materials (electrode material bias)

Context for the role:

• Superdielectrics Limited set out in 2013 to develop biocompatible, electrically conducting hydrophilic polymers which had the potential to be used in Bioelectronics.
• During their research and development programme, they noted that their materials exhibited very unusual electrical properties.
• Following independent research by the Bristol University Electrochemistry group, it was found that when tested in devices with simple carbon electrodes, the devices were characterised by geometrical capacitances three or four orders of magnitude larger than the geometrical capacitances of carbon electrodes in conventional electrolyte solutions.
• These outstanding electrochemical properties could be exploited in the development of high energy density supercapacitors.
• The company’s goal is to develop high energy density, low cost, low environmental impact electrical energy storage devices that will help create a clean and sustainable global energy and transportation system.
• As part of its continued development, Superdielectrics is now seeking to appoint a small number of polymer scientists and engineers to focus on polymer membrane optimisation and production scale up for its research and prototype development activities.

Objective of role:

• Plan, organise and carry out cutting-edge research and development projects to improve performance and achieve the full potential of our materials.
• Interact closely with the Project leads, and Research Group Lead to develop pertinent research programmes.
• Contribute to the development of our current technology for use in commercial applications and products.
• Contribute to, and support, the Superdielectrics’ positive safety culture.
• Execute agreed plans and report results to Project leads and Research Group Lead.
• Communicate results in written reports and presentations to a diverse audience.
• Ensure the safe and efficient use of various processes and equipment, including maintenance and fault reporting.
• Conduct regular analyses of materials using electrochemical testing, spectroscopes and other relevant instruments.
• Contribute to, and support, the innovation environment at Superdielectrics by collaborating with colleagues and different teams and by sharing ideas and undertaking joint projects.

Key Relationships & Interfaces

Internal:
• Scientists and engineers
• Project leads
• Research Group lead
• Head of R & D
• Management team

External:
• Suppliers
• Other external influencers as appropriate

Person Specification

• PhD in Electrochemistry or equivalent Material Science, Energy technologies, etc.,
• 2-3 years of post-university industrial experience for the Senior Scientist role; 0-1 years of the same for Scientist role
• Preferably, experience in leading teams and projects
• Strong practical knowledge of electrochemical cell (battery and supercapacitor) design, component interactions and testing.
• Background in experimental design and physical characterization of materials employed in the cell design.
• Preferably, ability to effectively manage and motivate a team of researchers
• Proven innovation skills in electrochemistry / electrode material science.
• Provide technical expertise in the design, synthesis, characterization of carbon- based electrode materials.
• Able to apply a high level of rigour to the analysis of data and results, and use this to draw and present conclusions to other scientists and non-technical stakeholders.
• Teamwork experience and skills.
• High attention to detail, flexibility and adaptability, and good communication skills.
• Passionate about renewable energy and energy storage.
• Not happy to accept the status quo, always wanting to push the boundaries of what is deemed possible.