Breakthrough Catalytic Materials and Processes for Integrated carbon Capture and Conversion to Sustainable Fuels and Chemicals

The University of Birmingham is offering a PhD project focused on developing breakthrough catalytic materials and processes for CO₂ capture and conversion into sustainable fuels and chemicals. This research aims to address challenges in sustainable chemistry and contribute to carbon neutrality. Candidates should have a relevant degree and laboratory experience. The position includes access to advanced facilities and opportunities for professional development and collaboration.
The global transition to a low-carbon economy demands innovative approaches to managing CO₂ emissions. This PhD project addresses one of the most pressing challenges in sustainable chemistry: the capture and catalytic conversion of CO₂ into high-value fuels and chemicals. By closing the carbon loop, this work contributes directly to circular economy principles and the broader goal of carbon neutrality.

Rather than treating CO₂ purely as a waste product, this project investigates its potential as a renewable feedstock. The successful candidate will develop and study advanced catalysts and processes to drive the selective conversion of captured CO₂ into targeted valuable products, such as sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), methanol, ethylene, or polymer precursors. This multidisciplinary research sits at the interface of materials science, heterogeneous catalysis, and chemical engineering.

Key areas

The project will engage with one or more of the following interconnected research topics:

• Power-to-X CO₂ Conversion

• Electro-fuels (e-fuels) and electro-chemicals (e-chemicals) via renewable-electricity-driven processes

• Thermo-catalytic hydrogenation of CO₂ to methanol, hydrocarbons, and oxygenates

• Electrochemical CO₂ reduction (eCO₂R) and CO₂ electrolysis

• Photoelectrochemical (PEC) reduction of CO₂ using solar-driven catalysts

• Dual-functional materials (DFMs) for integrated CO₂ capture and in-situ conversion



Candidate requirements

We welcome applications from motivated candidates with the following background:

• A BSc or MEng/MSc degree (or equivalent) in materials science, chemical engineering, chemistry, energy, or a closely related discipline

• Hands-on laboratory experience in porous material synthesis, physicochemical characterisation, and/or gas adsorption measurements is a strong advantage

• A track record of research engagement and the ability to communicate findings effectively in written and oral formats

• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration and the capacity to work productively within a diverse international team

What we offer

Successful candidates will benefit from:

• Access to state-of-the-art synthesis laboratories and advanced adsorption and catalysts characterisation facilities

• An intellectually vibrant, international, and interdisciplinary research environment

• Dedicated professional development training in research communication, scientific writing, data analysis, and project management

• Opportunities to present work at national and international conferences and to collaborate with academic and industry partners

How to apply

To apply, please compile the following documents into a single PDF and submit by email at c.sun.2@bham.ac.uk:

• A cover letter describing your research motivation and suitability for the project (maximum two pages)

• A full curriculum vitae including academic background, publications (if any), and relevant research experience

• Official academic transcripts for all completed and in-progress degrees

• Contact details (name, position, institution, and email) for two academic or professional referees