Cellerate is supporting a new fully funded PhD project at The University of Manchester, focused on advancing zinc-based battery technology through automated experimentation and robotics.

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The project, Optimizing Zinc Metal Cycling for High-Efficiency, Scalable Battery Systems with Advanced Robotics and Automation, will explore how emerging automation tools can accelerate battery development and improve experimental reproducibility.

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This opportunity sits at the intersection of electrochemistry, materials science, and laboratory automation, offering a chance to work with advanced research equipment while addressing key challenges in next-generation energy storage.

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About the Project

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Zinc-based batteries are gaining increasing attention as a promising alternative to lithium-based technologies due to their potential advantages in cost, safety, and sustainability. However, challenges related to zinc metal cycling, efficiency, and lifetime must be overcome before these systems can be widely deployed.

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This research project aims to improve the understanding and optimisation of zinc metal cycling using automated high-throughput experimentation.

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The successful candidate will use Cellerate’s automated research platforms, including:

• Automated cell assembly systems
• Test fixtures for dilatometry and force measurement
• Reference electrode configurations for advanced electrochemical analysis
• Rapid process development tools for high-throughput testing

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By combining robotics with advanced electrochemical techniques, the project will investigate how additives, novel materials, and improved processing methods can enhance battery performance and enable scalable zinc battery technologies.

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What You Will Work On

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During the PhD, the candidate will:

• Investigate mechanisms that control zinc metal cycling behaviour
• Develop improved cell designs and electrolyte formulations
• Use automated assembly and testing systems to generate large, reliable datasets
• Apply advanced electrochemical analysis techniques
• Explore how robotics and automation can accelerate battery research workflows

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The project will provide experience in battery chemistry, materials characterisation, electrochemistry, and automated laboratory systems, preparing the candidate for careers in both academic research and the battery industry.

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Funding and Details

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• Duration: 3.5 years
• Location: The University of Manchester, UK
• Funding: Fully funded PhD for UK students and EU students with settled status
• Stipend: UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26, expected to increase annually)
• Start Date: October 2026

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How to Apply

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To find out more about this opportunity please visit: Optimizing Zinc Metal Cycling for High-Efficiency, Scalable Battery Systems with Advanced Robotics and Automation

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