A123 Systems, LLC is a leading developer and manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries and battery systems for the transportation and commercial ESS markets.
A123 Systems, LLC has an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented team player to lead R&D efforts to develop next generation cathodes that integrate both advanced cathode active materials and solid electrolyte materials with A123’s manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong preference for hands-on lab work with a record of achievement in the areas of cathode active materials, solid state electrochemistry, materials chemistry, and/or interfacial surface science. Experience in formulating and validating chemically and mechanically durable composite coatings is essential. Solid state lithium-ion battery development and scale up experience is a plus. Primary job directives will include (1) developing scalable processes to incorporate high energy density solid state cathodes into lithium battery manufacturing processes (2) driving the minimization of cathode electrolyte interfacial impedance both through internal efforts and collaboration with external partners. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional communication skills, a drive and record of technical problem solving, and the initiative to see large projects to completion.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Develop chemically and mechanically durable composite coatings for energy storage devices which include complex systems of oxides, carbon packages, binder and solvents. which are compatible with solid state electrolytes and meet cell performance specifications
- Maximize solid state battery performance by identifying, characterizing and mitigating interactions between sulfide- solid state electrolytes and high energy density cathode materials within the context of conventional manufacturing processes
- Work with internal and external collaborators to design, direct, and carry out experiments to achieve project milestones
- Contribute technical leadership to the cathode team and overall organization with respect to electrochemical methods, material characterization, novel cell design. Plan experiments, document results, prepare reports, and present findings.
- Contribute to generation of intellectual property
Minimum Requirements:
- Ph.D. with 5+ years of industrial experience after degree completion and postdoctoral work, in the lithium-ion battery field or solid-state electrochemical device
- Hands-on R&D experience developing chemically and mechanically durable composite coatings for electrochemical devices which include systems of oxides, carbon packages, binder and solvents.
Desired Specific Skills/Background:
- R&D experience from materials through to device level with cathode active materials involving synthesis, modification and manufacturing. Knowledge of lithium-ion battery or solid-state energy storage device manufacture, characterization, and failure analysis.
- Experience with formulation and electrode optimization for electrochemically and mechanically durable high energy density applications
• Ideally, direct experience developing solid state battery technologies • Preference for a “hands-on” approach and demonstrated problem solving.
- Capability of independently planning and executing complex and long-term work initiatives. Ability to think creatively and analytically to solve technical issues.
- Experience with DOE (Design of Experiments) methods and statistical software. Experience with root cause and corrective action and other six sigma methodology is preferred.
- Excellent organization of experiments, data, and findings. Clear and professional communication of data through technical conversations, presentations and written reports.
- Deep expertise in several advanced analytical techniques, including electrochemical, surface chemical and physical characterization techniques.
A123 is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer