PhD Studentship: A Formulation-by-Design Framework for High-Performance Li-S Battery Electrolytes University College London in United Kingdom

University College London (UCL) is offering a fully funded four-year PhD studentship in the Department of Chemical Engineering, supervised by Dr Alexander Kibler and Dr Lauren Ye Seol Lee. The project centers on developing a formulation-by-design framework for high-performance lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery electrolytes, a next-generation battery technology with significant potential for high-energy applications.

Li-S batteries are recognized for their impressive performance and sustainability compared to conventional Li-ion batteries, but their commercial adoption is hindered by stability issues rooted in complex chemistry. The project aims to address these challenges by leveraging data-driven parameterization to accelerate the discovery and optimization of electrolytes. Key electrolyte parameters such as phase behaviour, ionic conductivity, and electrochemical stability will be measured to build a high-fidelity formulation dataset. Predictive models will be developed to map formulation descriptors to experimentally validated battery mechanisms, and constrained multi-objective optimisation (CMOO) will guide the selection of promising electrolyte formulations, which will be validated through real cell testing.

The studentship offers comprehensive training in both experimental and computational methodologies relevant to the battery and energy sectors. This integrated skillset is highly sought after in academia and industry. The project is hosted across several leading departmental research groups, including the Advanced Propulsion Lab (APL), the Electrochemical Innovation Lab (EIL), and the Process Systems Engineering (PSE) community, providing access to a broad range of expertise and support.

Applicants should be enthusiastic scientists capable of working independently and collaboratively. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential. Experience in research methods, electrochemistry, battery science, numerical optimisation, or process systems engineering is desirable. Candidates must have or expect to obtain a degree (1st, 2:1, or M.Sc.) in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, physics, or a related discipline. UK citizenship or eligibility for 'home' fees is required for full funding; overseas students may apply if they can cover the difference between UK and overseas tuition fees.

The studentship provides a stipend of approximately £23,805 per annum plus UK-equivalent tuition fees for four years, with a start date in October 2026. Applications should be submitted via the UCL application portal, nominating Dr Alexander Kibler as supervisor and including a statement of interest. The closing date is 1st May 2026, but the position may be filled earlier if a suitable candidate is found. For informal enquiries, contact Dr Alexander Kibler at [email protected]. Further information about the MPhil/PhD course and recruitment process is available on the UCL Department of Chemical Engineering website.