Purpose of the Role
Senior Binder Material Engineer – Cell Design
Location: Oxford, UK
Function: Cell Technology / Cell Design
Line Management: None
Financial Responsibility: None
The Opportunity
Agratas is building one of the world’s most advanced and sustainable battery businesses. Backed by Tata Group, we are developing next‑generation cell technologies, world‑class gigafactories, and a global supply chain designed for long‑term impact.
We are scaling fast — and we’re looking for exceptional people who want to shape the future of clean energy.
If you’re passionate about battery materials, thrive in a fast‑moving technical environment, and want your work to directly influence the next generation of Li‑ion cells, this is your opportunity.
Key Responsibility Areas
What You’ll Do
Binder Material Selection
* Lead market surveys, materials screening, parameter optimisation, and down‑selection for binder materials.
* Engage with Tier 1 and emerging suppliers to align on material characteristics and performance requirements.
* Act as a subject matter expert on structure–property relationships to support commercial and technical optimisation.
Material Characterisation & Testing
* Define analytical tools and methods to characterise binder materials.
* Lead development and deployment of novel analytical techniques.
* Support the selection and implementation of quality tools and validation methods.
Formulation & Design Support
* Provide technical input into binder design, including coating methods, materials, and thickness optimisation.
* Support JR assembly process optimisation to achieve target functionality and performance.
Supply Chain & Supplier Quality Support
* Partner with procurement and supplier quality to define and control material specifications.
* Support supplier audits, DFMEA activities, and specification management.
Production & Manufacturing Support
* Define optimal materials handling, formulation, and processing conditions for manufacturing teams.
* Provide technical guidance to ensure robust and scalable production processes.
Cross‑Functional Collaboration
* Work closely with cell design, manufacturing, procurement, and supplier quality to ensure milestones are met and materials are fully validated.
Documentation & Reporting
* Own and maintain material specifications.
* Provide periodic updates and technical reports to stakeholders across the business.
Job Context
What You Bring
Technical Expertise
* Deep understanding of binder materials, raw material differences, processing considerations, and supplier capabilities.
* Strong proficiency in materials characterisation (e.g., permeability, ionic conductivity, thermal behaviour) and electrochemical analysis (e.g., CH/DCH characteristics).
* Awareness of global binder and separator suppliers and emerging market trends.
Analytical & Problem‑Solving Skills
* Ability to interpret complex test data, troubleshoot material issues, and optimise formulations to enhance cell performance.
Collaboration & Communication
* Excellent teamwork skills with the ability to work effectively across R&D, manufacturing, procurement, and supplier quality.
* Strong communication skills for reporting findings, presenting recommendations, and influencing stakeholders.
Continuous Learning
* Commitment to staying current with advancements in materials science and the broader Li‑ion battery field.
Qualifications
* Degree or PhD in Electrochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
* Experience mentoring junior engineers and supporting their technical development.
Why Join Agratas
* Shape the materials strategy behind next‑generation battery cells.
* Work in a fast‑growing, mission‑driven organisation backed by Tata Group.
* Collaborate with world‑class experts across cell design, materials, and manufacturing.
* Influence technologies that will power millions of electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
* Be part of a culture that values innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
Ready to Build the Future?
If you’re driven by innovation, excited by complex technical challenges, and motivated to make a real impact on the future of clean energy, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and help us accelerate the transition to sustainable energy.
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