Cement and concrete is one of the voluminous materials that humanity creates. Its creation and use is essential to society, but the manufacturing process emits a significant amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Concrete also readily reacts with CO2 to form solid carbonate minerals, or dissolved bicarbonate solutions, and thus may be able to help prevent climate change. If combined with other forms of emissions reduction, reacting this material with atmospheric CO2 may result in a carbon neutral or slightly net negative emission industry.
However, fundamental chemical data is missing on the behaviour of cement materials in reaction with CO2. The aim of this PhD project will be to develop novel laboratory experiments to complete this knowledge gap making a real step-change in our understanding of how these materials react with CO2. Also, the student will work with industrial partners who create and manage these materials, to produce relevant guidance or best practice. Work is most likely based at Heriot-Watt, but some visits to industrial partners may be necessary.
We are looking to recruit an excellent student who is motivated by a desire to contribute to preventing climate change. Experience with geochemistry, environmental sciences, chemical engineering, and laboratory experimentation are highly desirable. The funding requires the student to hold UK nationality.
The student will join Heriot-Watt’s Research Centre for Carbon Solutions, an internationally leading centre for researching proposals to prevent climate change. The centre includes state of the art laboratories, servicing a dynamic community of students and researchers.
All applicants must have or expect to have a 1st class MChem, MPhys, MEng, MSci or equivalent degree by Summer 2023. Selection will be based on academic excellence and research potential, and all short-listed applicants will be interviewed (in person or via Teams).
Closing Date: 15th February 2023. All successful candidates must commence studies by : 1st October 2023.
How to Apply
Apply Online
When applying through the Heriot-Watt on-line system please ensure you provide the following information:
(a) in ‘Study Option’
You will need to select ‘Edinburgh’ and ‘Postgraduate Research’. ‘Programme’ presents you with a drop-down menu. Chemical Engineering PhD/Chemistry PhD/Physics PhD/Electrical PhD/ Mechanical Engineering PhD for study option
(b) in ‘Research Project Information’
You will be provided with a free text box for details of your research project. Enter Title of the project for which you are applying and also enter the supervisor’s name.
This information will greatly assist us in tracking your application.
For questions about the application process, please contact [Email Address Removed]