Postdoctoral Scientist

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionSummary:
Giner, Inc. is seeking a qualified candidate to work on a DOE-EERE sponsored research project in efforts to develop advanced electrolyte and cathode for lithium-sulfur battery, prototype multi-layer prismatic pouch cells fabrication and testing and related technologies. The Postdoctoral candidate should have a Ph. D. degree in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. The candidate will work in all aspects of Li-S battery cell development, including development of Li-S battery cathode materials, electrode slurry formulations, electrode coatings, electrolytes, cell fabrication, cell testing, material characterization, and failure analysis characterization. The candidate should have a strong background in lithium-ion/lithium-sulfur, or a related field.

Qualifications and Desired Skills:

• Ph. D. with 0-3 years of academic or industrial experience in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in batteries, with experience in lithium-sulfur battery cathode, electrolyte, and full cell fabrication and testing.
• Ability to think creatively and analytically to solve technical issues based on strong understanding of Li-S battery chemistry and reaction mechanisms.

• Strong background in applied electrochemistry and electrochemical analysis techniques. Proficiency in material characterization techniques (SEM, XPS, XAS, FTIR, Raman, NMR etc.).
• In-operando characterization experience is a plus.
• Experience in fabrication and testing of prototype pouch cells is a plus.

• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
• Proven record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Job Description:
This DOE-EERE program focuses on liquid electrolyte development for Li-S batteries to enable long cycle life and high energy density with a goal to demonstrate 3 Ah or greater size pouch cells. This position is highly collaborative in nature within project team and with university partners. The research will be focused on the realization of a new electrolyte system for the stable cycling of lithium anode and high loading sulfur cathodes. The nature of the work combines technical knowledge and creative problem solving to meet program goals and milestones. This includes experimental design and analysis, mechanistic studies on the working and degradation process of Li-S cells, fabrication of materials and battery cells as well as testing and analysis of results, material characterization, and failure analysis characterization. The Postdoctoral Scientist will report to the PI and will work closely with the project team to design and carry out experiments. They will lead the communication of research goals, process, results, and conclusions both internally and externally through technical reports and presentations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Day to day performance and management of project work, including materials development, cell building and testing, sample preparation for operando characterization, and working in a glovebox and with metal anode cells.
• Carry out design of experiment matrices to improve electrochemical cell performance and cycle life.
• Making battery electrodes slurries, measuring rheology and electrode coatings. Liquid coating process (such as slot die and other roll-to-roll coating methods) development.
• Perform and interpret postmortem analysis using a wide range of characterization techniques.
• Interact with collaborators and administrators through reports, presentations, and deliverables.
• Contribute expertise and bring fresh approaches and skills to complement the existing team.

Please note that authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment and Giner will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or protected veteran status.

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