PhD Studentship: Solid Electrolyte Materials for All-solid-state Lithium-ion Battery

Project Title: Solid electrolyte materials for all-solid-state lithium-ion battery

The University of Exeter’s Department of Engineering is inviting applications for a PhD studentship fully-funded by the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy to commence on 25 September 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.  For eligible students the studentship will cover Home or International tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of at least £17,668 (2022/23 rate) for 3.5 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study. 

Project Description:

Energy storage devices, such as Lithium-ion batteries, help promote the widespread use of electric vehicles and are contributing towards the UK’s 2035 net zero electricity target. However, the application of conventional LIBs technology is still hindered by safety issues linked to flammable organic liquid electrolytes. Instead of using liquid electrolytes, all-solid-state LIB with solid state electrolytes are expected to provide better safety and improved energy density, which relies on the development of solid electrolyte materials.

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented candidate to join our team and develop novel solid state electrolyte materials for next generation batteries with low cost and high-performance, which will help overcome the current challenge and accelerate route-to-market.

Pioneering research work will be conducted to achieve:

1. novel and cheap fabrication of solid electrolyte materials,
2. interfacial and bulk degradation mechanisms research,
3. cost-effective process and optimised performance of all-solid-state batteries.                                              

International applicants need to be aware that you will have to cover the cost of your student visa, healthcare surcharge and other costs of moving to the UK to do a PhD. 

Entry requirements:

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second-Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in appropriate areas of Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering. 

Candidates are expected to start from September 2023.

If English is not your first language you will need to meet the required level (Profile A) as per our guidance at https://www.exeter.ac.uk/pg-research/apply/english/

How to apply

In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents:

• CV
• Letter of application (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project).
• Research proposal (no more than one page)
• Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying)
• Names of two referees familiar with your academic work. You are not required to obtain references yourself. We will request references directly from your referees if you are shortlisted.
• If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English.

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