Aging Modelling Engineer M/F

🔋 About Verkor

Verkor is a French industrial company dedicated to pioneering low-carbon battery manufacturing in France. With the support of prominent industrial leaders like Renault Group, Plastic Omnium, and Schneider Electric, Verkor is committed to electrifying the future of European mobility.

We are a dynamic and growing team of over 750 experts from 48 countries, united by an ambitious and innovative project. Our operations are based in Grenoble and Dunkirk, France, and we have recently launched our Verkor Innovation Centre, which houses our R&D and 4.0 pilot line.

Our current focus is on building the world's most modern and efficient Gigafactory in Dunkirk. This facility aims for an initial annual production of 16 GWh of lithium-ion batteries by 2025, powering approximately 300,000 electric vehicles each year.

By joining Verkor, you will be an active participant in this incredible industrial adventure, shaping the future of European mobility.

✨ Description of the Role

• Develop physics-based mathematical models for Li-ion battery cell degradation (SEI growth, CEI, particle/electrode cracking, etc.).
• Implement models in COMSOL, PyBaMM, 3D Experience, and other available tools, conducting life estimation studies under various load conditions (drive cycles, CCCV cycling, charge protocols, etc.).
• Develop tools and techniques (experimental and modeling) for the physicochemical characterization of degradation mechanisms (SEI, CEI, electrolyte, etc.) and construct a material database.
• Develop, implement, and run data-driven models for cell degradation and life estimation.
• Perform Design of Experiments (DOEs) and run experiments in close collaboration with battery scientists and test engineers for aging analysis, model parameterization, and validation.
• Construct advanced studies, perform data analyses, run simulations, and deliver study results, supporting the Product Development Team from early stages to final production.
• Review literature to understand the state-of-the-art in complex aging mechanisms in Li-ion cells.
• Work closely with cell development leaders to meet project requirements according to timelines.
• Lead technical investigations, perform diagnostic analysis, and prepare progress updates; participate in creating design review dossiers.
• Take initiative for intellectual property development.

✅ Responsibilities

• Regularly review state-of-the-art concepts, tools, methodologies, and technologies (experimental and simulation), and construct a roadmap of activities.
• Ensure the traceability and reliability of simulation results, methods, and experimental data.
• Uphold best practices in mathematical modeling and numerical simulations.
• Ensure timely delivery of case-study results according to product development timelines.
• Prepare technical notes, standards, and work instructions on tools, methods, and studies.

🎓 Requirements

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
• Specialized knowledge in electrochemical engineering, Li-ion batteries, and their degradation mechanisms.
• Experience in physics-based modeling of Li-ion battery degradation (3+ years preferred).
• Experience in data-driven modeling and Machine Learning is a plus.
• Strong background in data analysis and mathematical modeling.
• Proficiency in scientific coding (Matlab/Python).
• Proficiency in simulation tools (3D Experience, ANSYS, COMSOL, PyBaMM, etc.).
• Experience in hands-on lab activities (cell assembly, testing, etc.).
• Experience in project management.
• English: Proficient / French is a plus.

🌟 Why Join Us?

We foster a strong company spirit and culture built around our four core values:

• Contribution: We encourage personal initiative and empower everyone to contribute to the company's success.
• Communication: We are committed to transparent communication; we say what we think, and we mean what we say.
• Team Spirit: Everyone, in their role, is an ambassador for the company. At Verkor, success is undoubtedly a team sport!
• Commitment: We are all working towards a common goal: a sustainable future, which we are building step by step.

💼 Attractive Work Conditions

• Stimulating work environment: pleasant offices, multicultural and motivated team.
• Lunch vouchers.
• 50% of local transportation costs financed.
• Industry-leading healthcare.
• Opportunities to network and connect with worldwide experts.

For more information about Verkor, please visit us at www.verkor.com.

*All positions are open to individuals possessing a Recognition of the Status of Disabled Worker (RQTH).