About the roleThe University of Leicester is seeking a talented Research Associate to join the AlCaDES Project within the School of Chemical, Environmental and Earth Science. Sponsored by the Faraday Institution, this research project addresses key challenges associated with aqueous rechargeable aluminium metal batteries and aims to develop a cost-effective process that combines pretreatment and operational aqueous electrolytes to create a stable solid electrolyte interphase during cell cycling. As part of this exciting programme, you will play a leading role in sample preparation, cell testing and analysis using a wide range of electrochemical, thermal, mechanical, spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, working collaboratively with colleagues and project partners to achieve ambitious research objectives.You will contribute to the development of innovative research methods and approaches, manage laboratory facilities to ensure safe and efficient operation, and communicate research outcomes through publications, presentations and conferences. In addition, you will support knowledge exchange activities with industrial and academic partners, contribute to future funding opportunities, and provide guidance and mentoring to students and early career researchers. As a member of our Citizens of Change community, you will help advance research that delivers meaningful impact while working in an environment that values inclusivity, inspiration and collaboration. The University is committed to upholding freedom of speech and academic freedom within the law, ensuring that diverse perspectives and open debate are valued as essential components of our academic mission.About youYou will hold a PhD, or equivalent experience, in electrochemistry and the physical chemistry of chloroaluminate electrolytes, together with expertise in chloroaluminate battery design and function. You will have experience of in-operando spectroscopic techniques relevant to chloroaluminate systems, particularly Raman spectroscopy or XAFS, and be confident handling and preparing air-sensitive materials, including chloroaluminate liquids, gels and eutectics. Experience of anaerobic glove-box operation and maintenance, laboratory management and the supervision of students is essential.We are looking for an individual with excellent analytical and scientific problem-solving skills, a strong understanding of health and safety requirements, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team while managing competing priorities. You will be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to world-changing research, collaborate with a wide range of partners and support the development of others. Experience of publishing scientific papers, developing intellectual property and demonstrating leadership capability would be advantageous. We welcome applications from candidates who share the University’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and who will help foster an environment where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to positive change.Additional informationInformal enquiries are welcome and should be made too Professor Karl Ryder at ##### part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. More information regarding secondments can be found hereThe University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.Unable to show this video due to your cookie preferencesVacancy ID:13653Location:LeicesterSchool/Division:Please SelectVacancy terms:Full time fixed term contract until 31 March 2027Salary details:Grade 7 - 39,906 to 46,049 per annumHours per week:37.5Advert closes midnight on:14 Sep 2026