Purpose of the Role
Senior Cathode Material Engineer
Location: Agratas R&D Centre, Oxford
Function: Materials Science | Battery Innovation | Advanced Li-ion Technologies
Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent
The Opportunity
Join Agratas, Tata Group’s global battery business, as we build a world-class team to develop next-generation lithium-ion battery technologies. Our new R&D Centre in Oxford is at the heart of innovation—and we’re looking for a Senior Cathode Material Engineer to lead the development, sourcing, and optimization of cathode active materials that will power the battery technologies of tomorrow.
This is a critical role for a materials expert ready to make a commercial impact—combining scientific depth with practical application. You will work cross-functionally with our cell design, procurement, quality, manufacturing, and supplier partners to bring advanced battery solutions from concept to reality.
Key Responsibility Areas
Key Responsibilities
Active Material Selection & Sourcing
Lead global surveys and down-selection of cathode active materials (e.g., NMC, NCA, LFP).
Engage with leading and emerging suppliers to define and align on material specifications.
Drive innovation aligned with commercial and performance objectives.
Material Characterization & Testing
Specify and develop analytical tools for assessing material structure and properties.
Lead implementation of cutting-edge techniques for materials analysis and validation.
Formulation & Integration
Support cathode electrode and electrolyte formulation teams with materials expertise.
Provide insights on additives, binders, and conductive agents to enable optimal cell performance.
Supply Chain & Production Support
Assist procurement and quality functions in defining material specs and managing supplier relationships.
Participate in supplier audits, DFMEA reviews, and specification controls.
Support scale-up and production with best practices in materials handling and processing.
Documentation & Cross-Functional Collaboration
Maintain technical ownership of materials specifications.
Provide clear technical reports and updates to key stakeholders across R&D and commercial teams.
Job Context
What You’ll Bring
Technical Expertise
In-depth knowledge of cathode active materials including structure-property relationships, synthesis, and electrochemical behavior.
Hands-on experience with characterization techniques such as SEM, XRD, PSD, dq/dv, and EIS.
Industry Awareness
Familiarity with major players and market trends in global cathode materials supply chains.
Awareness of manufacturing requirements from lab to gigafactory scale.
Collaborative Skills
Strong ability to work in cross-disciplinary teams and communicate complex technical findings clearly.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills and data-driven decision-making.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Qualifications:
PhD or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering.
Experience in battery materials R&D, ideally within a commercial or industrial setting.
Passion for innovation and a desire to contribute to the future of sustainable energy.
Why Join Agratas?
At Agratas, we're not just building batteries—we're building the future of clean energy. You’ll join a fast-paced, dynamic team empowered to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of technology. Backed by the Tata Group, you’ll have the scale, support, and ambition needed to make a global impact.
Apply Now
If you're ready to lead the charge in cathode materials innovation, we want to hear from you.
Apply today and become part of the journey to power a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable world.