Position OverviewWe are seeking a highly experienced and innovative Senior Manager of R&D with deep expertise in cathode materials for next-generation rechargeable batteries, including Mn-rich NMC, Li-rich layered oxides, Lithium-Sulfur (Li-S), and Sodium-ion cathode chemistries.
This role will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the design, development, and optimization of advanced cathode materials, with a strong focus on translating lab-scale innovations into practical, electrode and cell technologies. This role is critical in advancing the company's core technology roadmap, particularly in the areas of cathode material innovation with surface/interface design for electrolyte and anodes. The ideal candidate will bring deep scientific expertise, a proven track record of innovation, and strong leadership in battery materials research and development.
Primary Responsibilities- Technology Development & Strategic Planning:
- Lead R&D projects focused on advanced energy storage chemistries, including Li-S and sodium-ion batteries and next generation battery technology such as Mn-rich layered oxides
- Lead design and development of next-generation cell material (e.g., cathode, electrolyte, separator, anode interface) and electrode/cell design.
- Drive innovation in cathode material and surface/interface engineering for anode for Li-S, sodium-ion batteries and next generation battery technology.
- Define short- and long-term R&D goals aligned with company strategy.
- Develop technology roadmaps and project plans with clear milestones and deliverables.
- Team Leadership:
- Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary R&D team including scientists, engineers, and technicians.
- Foster a collaborative and high-performance research environment.
- Engage with external collaborators including academic institutions, research labs, and strategic partners.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams in scale-up, and cell development
- Data Analysis & Reporting:
- Oversee data collection, modeling, and interpretation to drive material and performance optimization.
- Present research findings and progress reports to executive leadership and stakeholders.
- IP Generation & Publication:
- Identify opportunities for intellectual property and support patent filings.
- Publish key findings in peer-reviewed journals and represent the company at technical conferences.
Specific Skills / Background- Ph.D. in Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. (Exceptional M.S. candidates with significant experience will also be considered.)
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in next generation battery R&D, with 5+ years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Proven expertise in: next-gen cathode material such as Li-S and sodium-ion systems
- High knowledge and experience in electrode and cell development
- Strong background in electrochemical testing & analysis, materials characterization, and cell prototyping.
- Demonstrated success in leading research teams and delivering innovative results
- Excellent organizational and leadership skills.
- Familiarity with scale-up considerations from lab to pilot production.
- Knowledge of IP strategy and patent processes.
- Strong communication and project management skills
Additional comments about position: Initiation, responsibility, attention to details and comprehensive analysis are essential; team-player with a positive attitude and the ability to operate with minimal direct supervision is a major plus.
