PhD Studentship: Development of Nanoporous Membranes for Advanced Molecular Separations

Supervisory Team: Dr Jeng Yi Chong

Project description:

World-pressing issues such as climate change and water scarcity have driven the need for greener and more sustainable technologies. Membrane technology is an attractive alternative due to its low carbon footprint and versatility. Membranes have been extensively applied in water treatment, seawater desalination and product purifications, and they can potentially offer more efficient solutions in separation processes across various industries. Advancing membrane materials is crucial to unlocking their full potential, enabling more efficient and sustainable industrial solutions for the future.

This PhD project aims to develop nanoporous membranes using porous organic frameworks (POFs) for molecule-level separations. POFs, constructed from organic monomers with strong covalent bonds, offer high stability and tunable properties, making them ideal candidates for designing membranes with tailored separation performance. Advanced POF thin-film synthesis methods will be developed in this project. The developed membranes will be studied for small molecule (

This is a fully funded 3.5-year PhD studentship ideal for someone with a background in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Materials Science, and a strong interest in materials and separations. The project will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including both experimental and characterization tools available at the University of Southampton.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Jeng Yi Chong, Email: J.Y.Chong@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Material Science or related area (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 March 2025.  Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.  For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online:  Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Chemical Engineering (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Dr Jeng Yi Chong

Applications should include:

Research Proposal

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward. 

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