CDT-GIF: Life cycle assessment of future low carbon, circular industrial products

This advert will close once a suitable candidate has been found.

This PhD is one of a number of projects hosted by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF). We are offering pioneering research projects that will enable PhD researchers to explore key technologies and solutions that will support UK industry to reach net zero.

Project: UK industrial emissions have reduced by nearly 50% since the 1990s, but this has largely been driven by de-industrialisation. At the same time, imports have risen. For example, imports of cement have risen from 10% to 22% in the last 15 years.

As illustrated by recent research^1,2,3, the future of UK industry relies on significant changes, including electrification, CCUS, and increasing circularity.

To grow a market for low carbon products, UK industry will need to be able to certify its low carbon emissions, in growingly complex markets with significant innovation, yet with increasing share of imports.

For a selection of case studies, including from among the Green Industrial Futures CDT partners, this project will explore the environmental footprint of low carbon and circular products, and how these could be certified in the context of international trade. This will support government in developing targets and policies to support decarbonisation of UK industrial sectors, while recognising the global trade flows of industrial materials.

The PhD will involve collaboration with the UK Department of Energy Security and Net Zero.

Research Objectives

• Identify case studies of products which illustrate new UK industry for 2030, i.e. including more waste/reused products, CCUS, electrification with on-site renewables, hydrogen.
• Produce life cycle assessments aligned with international standards and highlight key interoperability issues and produce recommendations for alignment.
• Explore certification options relevant to international trade, including for Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms.
• Compare with international products to evaluate the risks of producing in the UK, and important factors for remaining competitive.

Supervisors: Dr Stephen Allen (University of Bath), Dr Melanie Jans-Singh (Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, UK Government), Dr Jannik Giesekam (University of Strathclyde)

CDT in Green Industrial Futures: The CDT is funded by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and is a partnership between Heriot Watt University, Imperial College London, and the Universities of Sheffield and Bath. The CDT is further supported by contributions from industrial partners. Bringing these leading universities together allows CDT-GIF students access to a wide range of academic expertise, resources and facilities.

The CDT-GIF has an exciting and challenging programme specifically designed for top performing junior researchers. Alongside the four-year research project, students will receive expert training and opportunities to contextualise their research within the wider net zero landscape, including:

• Residential taught courses at each of the partner universities in Years 1 and 2 that provide training in the systematic considerations for industry including: Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), technoeconomics, business models, policy & regulation, public engagement, plant operation.
• An international opportunity in Year 2 or 3 of the programme, including opportunities to visit a world-leading facility, conference or forum and explore the global context of industrial decarbonisation.
• A work placement with one of our industrial partners.
• A bespoke ‘net-zero leadership programme’, including regular exchanges with cohort members from the other universities, student-led activities, industry challenge sandpit, industrial site visits, and professional development opportunities.

Candidate requirements: As a minimum we require candidates to have a First-class or 2:1 Meng, MSc, or MA with merit (over 60%) in a relevant subject area. Applicants who have a First-class BSc/BEng (Hons) and can demonstrate significant relevant industry/research experience may also be considered.

Non-native English speakers must ensure they meet the English language requirements.

Enquiries and applications. Informal enquiries regarding the research project can be directed to Sophia Coe [Email Address Removed]. Alternatively, if you have a question regarding the wider CDT-GIF programme, please contact [Email Address Removed].

Formal applications can be made here: https://greenindustrialfutures.site.hw.ac.uk/the-programme/how-to-apply/ Applications are open until filled so we would encourage early application.

The initial application involves an application form (including a short personal statement and CV). You may select up to two CDT-GIF projects. Applicants will then be selected to interview. If successful at interview, candidates will be asked to complete the application process for the home university. 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We warmly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Our programme values diversity as a cornerstone of innovation and collaboration, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive. The CDT-GIF are committed to ensuring flexibility throughout our programme to support student’s needs and personal circumstances, for example those with medical conditions, caring responsibilities and other considerations. For example, we are open to exploring part-time options if appropriate for the nature of the research. 

Keywords: Life cycle assessment, industrial decarbonisation, industry, manufacturing, circular economy