Crystallisation Scientist

Watercycle Technologies is looking for an individual to lead the crystallisation research and development programme of its direct lithium extraction process. This role will work directly alongside our CTO and the work will direct the development and scale-up of a prototype and expand into a series of workstreams connected to pilot demonstrations with commercial partners. We are looking for a highly motivated individual who can analyse ambiguous problems, make decisions and deliver solutions in a fast-paced, agile working environment. This individual has the opportunity to make an enormous impact in a young start-up and grow a company where the technology is a critical piece in the transition to a net-zero future and circular economy.

About the company:

Watercycle Technologies is a spin-out company from the University of Manchester developing water treatment and mineral recovery systems for a range of industries including mining, desalination, textiles and others. Currently, we are the only UK-based company developing direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology, which will reduce the environmental impact of current lithium extraction processes and secure a UK lithium supply chain for electric vehicles.

Responsibilities:

• Deliver a targeted development programme on the crystallisation of lithium salts, including experimental procedures, testing, characterisation and analysis, from bench-top to pilot-scale experiments.

• Perform analyses on the crystal size, shape, chemical purity and polymorphism.

• Theoretically and experimentally compare crystallisation routes at different scales and critically evaluate them in terms of costs and environmental impact, and deliver recommendations to the CTO.

• Assist in the design, prototyping and testing of novel crystallisation vessels for the pilot system.

• Be actively involved in product design iteration, creation of new IP, exploring new opportunities with continuous crystallisation and related technologies.

Essential requirements:

• Minimum of a bachelors degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Natural Sciences (or similar).

• Understanding of the main concepts concerning crystallisation:

  • Characterisation techniques such as optical microscopy, SEM, DLS, FTIR, XRD, ICP-MS.

  • Solid-liquid separation processes including centrifugal and filtration methods.

• Confident, autonomous and safety-conscious worker in a wet-chemistry lab environment.

• Creative and diligent approach to problem solving and an ability to think critically.

• Excellent communication skills and team-working skills in a multidisciplinary environment.

• Able to work on a full-time contract in the UK.

Desirable requirements:

• PhD and/or >3 years industrial experience in a related field.

• Experience using MATLAB or similar modelling software.

• Awareness of various water treatment technologies.

Job details:

• Full-time

• Competitive salary offered depending on qualifications and experience. Share options scheme available after a successful 3-month probation.

• Onsite working at the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, Manchester, UK

To apply, send your CV and a cover letter to info@watercycletechnologies.com