The University of Oxford is offering a fully-funded DPhil (PhD) studentship in the field of Multiphysics Modelling of Solid-State Batteries, supervised by Prof Laurence Brassart and Prof Charles Monroe. This research opportunity is part of the SOLBAT project of the Faraday Institution, which aims to advance the development of solid-state batteries (SSBs) with superior performance for electric vehicle applications. SSBs are considered a promising alternative to conventional Li-ion batteries, offering higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety due to their solid, non-flammable electrolytes.

The project focuses on the multiphysics modelling of electro-chemo-mechanical couplings in composite cathodes of SSBs. The research will involve developing a continuum model within the framework of irreversible thermodynamics to describe the coupling between ionic transport and mechanical stresses in battery materials. The model will be used to simulate charge and discharge cycles, analyze failure phenomena such as interfacial debonding and dendrite growth, and establish relationships between material properties, microstructure, and battery performance. Candidates may explore specific areas such as loss of electroneutrality in solid electrolytes, numerical simulation of failure mechanisms, and the development of homogenisation models for battery-scale simulations.

This studentship is ideal for candidates with a strong interest in theoretical and computational work, particularly those with backgrounds in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry. Applicants should have a first class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, excellent English communication skills, foundations in continuum mechanics and thermodynamics, and programming ability in Matlab or Python. Experience with numerical methods such as finite element analysis is desirable but not essential.

The position is fully funded for Home students, covering course fees (approximately £10,470 per year) and a tax-free stipend of about £21,805 per year for the first year, with at least this amount for the remaining duration of the 3.5-year studentship. The start date is October 2026, and the application deadline is noon on 3 March 2026. Experimental data to support model development will be provided by collaborators in the Department of Materials Science via the SOLBAT project.

To apply, candidates must submit a graduate application form through the University of Oxford website, quoting reference 26ENGMM_LB in all correspondence and applications. Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be directed to Prof Brassart at [email protected]. For further details, visit the Department Research Studentship page.

Keywords: Solid-State Batteries, Multiphysics Modelling, Electro-chemo-mechanical Coupling, Continuum Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Computational Modelling, Materials Science, Battery Performance, Finite Element Methods, Electrochemistry.