PhD Studentship: Battery Manufacturing and Cell Design for Novel Chemistries

This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Birmingham offers an outstanding opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation battery manufacturing and cell design for novel chemistries. Hosted within the Energy Materials Group in the School of Metallurgy & Materials, the project aims to advance practical and sustainable energy storage solutions by focusing on innovative battery systems beyond conventional lithium-ion, including sodium-ion and hybrid-ion technologies. The research will center on the design and optimization of full cells, integrating materials selection, electrode and electrolyte design, cell architecture, and manufacturing processes to deliver scalable energy storage technologies. Key project aspects include the development of blended electrodes and compatible electrolytes, cell balancing, formation protocols, and the study of performance degradation mechanisms. The project also emphasizes manufacturing-relevant processing of electrodes and cells, including considerations for scale-up, as well as electrochemical testing and post-mortem analysis to link design choices to cell performance and lifetime. The Energy Materials Group provides a dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities for materials synthesis, electrode processing, cell assembly, electrochemical testing, and advanced characterization. The successful candidate will join a large cohort working across lithium-ion, sodium-ion, and next-generation battery technologies, under the supervision of Professor Emma Kendrick. Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree or a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related discipline. While experience in electrochemistry, materials processing, or battery research is advantageous, comprehensive training will be provided for those new to the field. Candidates must not already hold a PhD and must meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0). The studentship is open to applicants of all nationalities and provides competitive funding, including full international tuition fees and a UKRI-rate stipend of approximately £20,000 per year. The application process requires candidates to send an expression of interest directly to Professor Emma Kendrick, including a CV, a one-page project proposal, transcripts of grades for all previous degrees, and proof of English proficiency. The closing date for applications is 15 March 2026, with shortlisted candidates invited to interview. For further details and to apply, please visit the project page or contact Professor Kendrick via email.