PhD Studentship: Advanced materials for CO2 conversion to methanol

Meeting the net-zero commitment on greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 means significantly cutting back on emissions by 2035. However, currently, ~80% of our energy supply is dependent on fossil fuels which by default means additional emissions. There is a wide range of technologies that can help us achieve decarbonisation of our energy supply and reach net zero. Using renewable hydrogen to convert emitted CO_2, for the sustainable synthesis of chemicals, such as methanol, could result in a ~ 90% drop in CO₂ emissions. And this could be possible using existing infrastructure.

Indeed, methanol is currently used as a solvent, pesticide, and alternative fuel source. It can be blended with gasoline to be used in existing road vehicles or can be used as a substitute for gasoline or diesel in flex-fuel vehicles and dedicated methanol-fuelled vehicles. However, the lack of robust and active catalysts that convert CO₂ to methanol selectively are currently hindering its wide commercial deployment. This project proposes a new way of controllably producing such catalysts, using a method called exsolution. In this, instead of depositing the catalytically active sites on the surface of the materials, they emerge on the surface from within following a carefully designed pre-treatment. This allows to spatially and chemically control them, while also provide them with stability against agglomeration and poisoning.

The studentship is part of, and EPSRC funded project, aimed towards the design and preparation of Cu-X catalysts via the exsolution method that will allow us to successfully convert a CO₂ to methanol. This will also ultimately enable a step-change in our progress towards our 2050 net-zero goals.

Supervisor: Dr Kelly Kousi

Entry requirements

Open to any UK or international candidates. Up to 30% of our UKRI funded studentships can be awarded to candidates paying international rate fees. Find out more about eligibility. Starting in October 2025.

You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who holds a master degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline. The candidate should be a good team player and can engage in collaboration with good oral and written communication skills. Previous experience in catalysis and materials’ design is desirable but not necessary.

How to apply

Applications should be submitted via the Chemical and Process Engineering Research PhD programme page, by clicking the 'Apply' button, above.

In place of a research proposal, you should upload a document stating the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor.

Funding

Fully and directly funded for this project only.

We are offering the UKRI standard stipend per year for full 3.5 years. In addition, a research, training and support grant of £3,000 over the project is also offered. Full home or overseas tuition fees (as applicable) will be covered.

Application deadline: 1 March 2025

Enquiries: Contact Dr Kelly Kousi

Ref: PGR-2425-013

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