PhD Chemistry: Nitrogen Fixation via the Sonochemical Generation and Electrochemical Conversion of Nitrite

Highly motivated and ambitious candidates are invited to apply for a fully-funded PhD studentship in the Symes Group at the School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow (www.symeslab.com). The vacancy is open now, to start not in September/October 2018. The work will include aspects of ultrasound-driven chemistry, electrochemistry and chemical engineering. Candidates should hold (or expect to hold by the start date) a 1st or upper 2nd class MSc / MChem / BSc or equivalent in a relevant discipline (chemistry, chemical engineering, materials, etc.), although detailed knowledge of specific techniques is not essential. Above all, candidates will be highly motivated and independently-minded, and should be able to demonstrate the ability to learn new skills in a research environment.

This research project will examine the use of ultrasound in the fixation of nitrogen under otherwise very mild conditions (room temperature and aqueous solution), the development of a flow system for continuous nitrogen fixation and the development of electrochemical methods for the downstream conversion of the products of nitrogen fixation to species such as ammonia. The research project is thus highly interdisciplinary, at the interface of chemistry, physics and engineering, and with the potential to have a major impact on more sustainable routes to nitrogen fixation. There is a significant travel budget available for the student to travel to national and international conferences to present research results.

Interested candidates must send a full CV and cover letter explaining why they wish to work in the Symes Group to [Email Address Removed]. Please note that funding is only available for UK and EU students. Further information on research in the Symes Group can be found at www.symeslab.com.