PhD Studentship: Microporous hybrid MOF composites for hydrogen storage applications

The project:

Hydrogen, a clean and versatile energy carrier, is poised to revolutionize the energy landscape. To realize a hydrogen-powered future, there is a critical need for efficient and sustainable hydrogen storage solutions.

This PhD project aims to address the limitations of current hydrogen storage technologies by developing innovative metal-organic framework (MOF)-polymer hybrid composites. These materials offer the potential for high-density hydrogen storage at relatively low pressures, making them ideal for applications in transportation and energy storage.

Project objectives:

• Synthesis of Advanced MOF-Polymer Composites: The project will focus on the synthesis of novel MOF-polymer hybrid materials with optimized pore structures and enhanced stability.
• Characterization of Composite Properties: Comprehensive characterization techniques will be employed to investigate the structural, morphological, and physical properties of the composites.
• Hydrogen Storage Performance: The hydrogen storage capacity and kinetics of the composites will be evaluated under various conditions, including temperature and pressure.
• Sustainability Assessment: The long-term stability and recyclability of the composites will be assessed to ensure their environmental and economic viability.

This project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the forefront of materials science and hydrogen storage research. Successful candidates will have a strong background in chemistry, materials science, or a related field. Any evidence of prior research experience will be an advantage.

How to apply:

Prior to submitting an online application, you will need to contact the project supervisor to discuss. 

Online applications are made by clicking the 'Apply' button, above.

Please select Aerospace Engineering PhD on the Programme Choice page.

If you would like to be considered for postgraduate research funding, ensure you select 'University of Bristol scholarship' for the UoB scholarship, or 'Engineering and Physical Science Research Council' for the EPSRC DLA Award under funding source when making your application.

Candidate requirements: 

Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum of a pass at master’s degree level (or international equivalent) in a science, mathematics or engineering discipline. Applicants without a master's qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree. 

Any research experience in chemistry or materials science can be an advantage. 

If English is not your first language, you need to meet this profile level: Profile E 

Further information about English language requirements and profile levels. 

Funding:

Funding will be considered by a competitive selection process. Minimum tax-free stipend at the current UKRI rate is £19,237 pa for 2024/25.

For eligibility and residence requirements please check the UKRI UK Research and Innovation website

Contacts:

For questions about the research topic, please contact:

Dr Sanjit Nayak: s.nayak@bristol.ac.uk   

For questions about eligibility and the application process please contact:

Engineering Postgraduate Research Admissions admissions-engpgr@bristol.ac.uk

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