Improving Carbon Dioxide Conversion by Bio-electrochemical Systems to Produce Sustainable Commodity Chemicals

Manufacturing non-fossil fuel derived platform chemicals is a pressing need to meet both the UKs and the global ambition to achieve nett zero. Bio-electrochemical systems (electrically driven microbial technology) have recently been shown to be able to convert CO2 to platform chemicals such as acetate. However significant challenges remain in understanding the fundamental principles which drive this microbial process. This project will analyse a range of bio-electrochemical reactor designs using a range of electro-chemical, chemical analysis (HPLC), (stable isotope analysis) and biological “ohmic” techniques to inform the scale up and industrial exploitation of these processes. 

Skills and entry requirements: 

An upper second-class honours degree or a Master’s degree in a relevant subject, or relevant equivalent industrial experience, is required. We particularly encourage applications from candidates holding a degree in Chemistry or Sustainable Environment.

Bursary:

The Studentship is to support full-time study for three years. The successful applicant will receive an annual tax-free bursary of £15,609 and tuition fees (at the Home student rate) will be paid by the University.

Apply here: Doing a PhD: information for applicants | University of South Wales

How to apply:

Please select MPhil/PhD (Sustainable Environment) when applying. Applicants are not expected to submit a research proposal for this studentship.

Informal enquiries about the project can be made to Professor Richard Dinsdale [Email Address Removed] 

Enquiries about the application procedure can be directed to Llinos Spargo in the Graduate School [Email Address Removed]

The Studentship will commence in October 2021.