PhD Studentship: Electrocatalysis of Sulfur Redox in the Solid StateUniversity

Supervised by Prof Graham Newton, Prof Lee Johnson, Prof Darren Walsh

Start date: January 2027

Application closing date: 8 December 2026

We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated and enthusiastic PhD student to work in our lithium-sulfur battery team at the University of Nottingham.

The lithium-sulfur battery is very promising for our future energy-storage requirements, as it has the potential to exceed the specific energy of the lithium-ion battery. However, the performance of the battery is limited by several technological challenges. This project will focus on the interfacial processes occurring within lithium-sulfur cells with a particular focus on the development of new catalysts and electrocatalysts for sulfur redox reactions. We encourage applicants with a range of skill sets to apply.

The candidate will work within the Nottingham Applied Materials and Interfaces Group at the University of Nottingham. Our research focuses on understanding the chemistry that underpins advanced energy systems and how this knowledge can be used to unlock a new generation of energy storage technologies for electrification of the automotive sector. The target is to enable alternative, sustainable technologies that can supersede the lithium-ion battery and the group maintains active research programmes in lithium-ion, magnesium-ion, lithium-air and lithium-sulfur batteries. Our approach spans synthetic chemistry, electrochemistry and device development, and is delivered in collaboration with a range of collaborators throughout the energy storage sector.

The successful candidate will join Cohort 9 of the Faraday Institution PhD Training Programme designed to increase the knowledge, skills and aspirations of UK battery related PhD researchers, and setting up individuals for career success.

The project will combine synthetic and analytical chemistry, electrochemistry, and device fabrication, equipping the applicant with key skills vital for many of the UK’s emerging industries.

Entry Requirements: You must have, or expect to gain, a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed PhD project, including chemistry, materials science, engineering, physics or a related field. The studentship covers fees at the Home rate (UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status and meet the residency criteria).

How to apply: To apply, applicants must complete all the following steps:

A. Contact Graham Newton by email in the first instance to register your interest in this studentship ([email protected])

B. Submit a short Faraday Institution expression of interest form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XL23CSF

C. Apply through the University of Nottingham’s application portal: Click the 'Apply' button above.