At present, most industries are heavily relying on fossil fuels and this has caused severe damage to the environment. Transitioning from a fossil based economy to a more sustainable, renewable and circular economy is envisaged and exigent, however this is not straightforward as there are various challenges that need to be addressed such as the availability of renewable feedstock, robustness of the conversion and pollution mitigation technologies, and sustainability performance of the whole system.
We need to undertake a more holistic and unified approach, in view of achieving a more circular economy and net zero targets. This can only be realised through a systems approach (i.e. integrated and multidisciplinary collaboration) that incorporates innovative engineering solutions; developing and accelerating the uptake of transformative technologies in the industry; and policy harmonisation.
This research project will focus on developing novel biorefinery system design that is highly integrated, flexible and robust for the production of fuels, chemicals, hydrogen and polymers. Biomass is regarded as a carbon-neutral feedstock and can potentially achieve negative carbon emissions if carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) facilities are embedded within the biorefinery system.
This research will explore one or more of the following areas:
• Sustainable aviation fuel production
• Chemical, hydrogen, methanol, Fischer-Tropsch liquid production
• Combined heat and power (CHP)
• Thermochemical and biochemical conversion of biomass
• CCUS pathways
• Centralised and decentralised configurations
Chemical engineering principles, process integration and intensification techniques are needed in designing the biorefinery systems in order to achieve maximum resource efficiency and minimum environmental impact by recovering by-product and waste streams into value-added products.
What would you expect from this project?
• Computational modelling: This project will require simulation modelling and optimisation techniques using software such as Aspen Plus, Matlab and GAMS, and will also involve software development using Python.
• Sustainability assessment: This research will involve rigorous sustainability assessment including techno-economic analysis and environmental life cycle assessment (LCA). LCA software such as SimaPro is required.
• International collaboration: In addition to the core engineering research study, this research will also involve great learning opportunities working with international collaborators from Malaysia, Thailand, Mexico and Brazil in view of promoting sustainability and circular economy practices in the developing countries.
You will have the opportunity to learn the policy aspects of these countries, engage with relevant stakeholders and integrate systems thinking into your study.
Applicants should have received a First or Upper Second Class honours degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Chemistry or a similar discipline. Applicants should be highly motivated, able to work independently and in a team, and have good written and verbal communication skills.
Research journey
Doctoral research programmes (PhDs) take a proud place in the world-class research environment and community at Brunel. PhD students are recognised and valued by their supervisors as an essential part of their departments and a key component of the university's overall strategy to develop and deliver world-class research.
A PhD programme is expected to take 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time, with intakes starting in January, April or October.
The general University entrance requirement for registration for a research degree is normally a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (1st or 2:1) or an international equivalent. A Masters degree is a welcome, but not required, qualification for entry.
Find out how to apply for a PhD at Brunel
Research support
Excellent research support and training
The Graduate School provides a range of personal, professional and career development opportunities. This includes workshops, online training, coaching and events, to enable you to enhance your professional profile, refine your skills, and plan your next career steps as part of the Researcher Development Programme. The researcher development programme (RDP) offers workshops and seminars in a range of areas including progression, research management, research dissemination, and careers and personal development. You will also be offered a number of online, self-study courses on BBL, including Research Integrity, Research Skills Toolkit, Research Methods in Literature Review and Principles of Research Methods.
Library services
Brunel's Library is open 24 hours a day, has 400,000 books and 250,000 ebooks, and an annual budget of almost £2m. Subject information Specialists train students in the latest technology, digital literacy, and digital dissemination of scholarly outputs. As well as the physical resources available in the Library, we also provide access to a wealth of electronic resources. These include databases, journals and e-books. Access to these resources has been bought by the Library through subscription and is limited to current staff and students.
Dedicated research support staff provide guidance and training on open access, research data management, copyright and other research integrity issues.
Find out more: Brunel Library
Careers support
You will receive tailored careers support during your PhD and for up to three years after you complete your research at Brunel. We encourage you to actively engage in career planning and managing your personal development right from the start of your research, even (or perhaps especially) if you don't yet have a career path in mind. Our careers provision includes online information and advice, one-to-one consultations and a range of events and workshops. The Professional Development Centre runs a varied programme of careers events throughout the academic year. These include industry insight sessions, recruitment fairs, employer pop-ups and skills workshops.
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