About the project
This interdisciplinary studentship will develop technology integrated and scalable bio-electrochemical processes to convert CO2, N2 and waste organics into high value compounds for fuels, chemicals, food, fertilisers using renewable electricity and microorganisms.
The UK chemical sector makes a significant contribution to the UK’s economy. However, it is the UK’s second highest industrial emitter, and heavily relies on petrochemicals.
To achieve Net Zero target, the reliance of energy and chemical industries on fossil fuels must change.
The aim of this studentship is to develop innovative technology based upon integrated and scalable bio-electrochemical processes to convert CO2, N2 and waste organics into high value compounds for fuels, chemicals, food, fertilisers using renewable electricity and microorganisms.
This PhD studentship will explore innovative solutions for sustainable, robust, future-proof processes and products transforming the Chemical industry displacing petrochemicals.
This interdisciplinary project provides a unique opportunity to work at the interface of microbiology, electrochemistry and chemical engineering to develop a nature-based solution for waste-to-resource.
The candidate will be beneficial from state of art facilities, dynamic and multidisciplinary expertise, and broad collaborations with industrial and international partners.
The objectives of the studentships include:
- develop effective efficient microbial electrosynthesis system, and understanding electron transfer and metabolic pathways
- design and integrate bio-electrochemical process linking electrochemical CO2 reduction products with MES for multi-carbon products synthesis
- optimisation of the bio-electrochemical systems.
Southampton doctoral college will provide you with comprehensive training to develop your skills in:
- engineering
- chemistry
- biotechnology
- social economics
- problem solving and critical analysis