Computational Chemistry Driven Design of Improved Thermal Batteries

Thermal batteries (often termed primary reserve batteries) offer several key advantages over primary and secondary batteries due to their long shelf life, high temperature stability, quick activation, reliability, robustness and the fact that they are maintenance-free. Despite these many advantages, the exact mechanisms that control performance in industrially utilised thermal batteries has remained unclear for decades, and thus design principles for discovering new thermal battery materials have been lacking. 

In this industrially sponsored PhD studentship, we have partnered with AWE to fund a 4-year Computational Project to use state-of-the-art Computational Chemistry techniques to understand structure-property relationships in thermal batteries, and to derive new understanding to guide design of new and improved thermal battery materials.

The successful applicant should have or expect to achieve at least a 2.1 honours or equivalent at Bachelors or Masters level in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a related discipline. The successful applicant will demonstrate strong interest and self-motivation in the subject and the ability to think analytically and creatively. Good computer skills, plus good presentation and writing skills in English, are required. Previous research experience in contributing to a collaborative interdisciplinary research environment is highly desirable but not necessary as training will be provided. Experience of computer modelling is desirable but not essential as full training will be provided in an active and well-resourced research group based in brand new state-of-the-art Chemistry laboratories at the rapidly growing University of Birmingham. Please visit our group website for more details about our research: http://davidscanlon.com/

Applications must be made through the university’s on-line application system https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/research/chemistry/chemistry-phd.aspx]. Please provide: (1) a cover letter summarising your research interests and suitability for the position; (2) the contact details of two people able to provide a letter of reference; and (3) a full curriculum vitae.

The School of Chemistry is keen to achieve a gender and diversity balance across the School and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. The School holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, which recognises its work in promoting women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEM). Applications will be accepted until 07 June 2024 but the position will be filled as soon as an appropriate candidate is found.

Funding notes:

This studentship is fully funded for 4 years and includes a tax-free annual stipend (currently £19,237) and fees (currently £4,786) at the UK home rate. DUE TO FUNDING RESTRICTIONS, THIS STUDENTSHIP IS ONLY OPEN TO UK APPLICANTS.