A reactor design study for optimal Metal Organic Framework synthesis

A reactor design study for optimal Metal Organic Framework synthesis

This exciting opportunity is based within the Advanced Materials Research Group at Faculty of Engineering.

Vision

We are seeking PhD student that is interested in climate change abatement and the use of solid sorbents that can be used to capture CO2. Together we will make technological advances in reactor designs that can reliably (in terms of repeatability, yield etc) and controllably make metal organic frameworks at scales from g/hr to tn/hr.

Motivation 

Promethean Particles is a spin out from the University and have traditionally used reactors operating at high temperatures and pressures, to make nanomaterials. However, Promethean aims to become the world’s largest manufacturer of Metal Organic Frameworks, and these do not require high pressures, or elevated temperatures. As such, the new generation of reactors will be entirely different, and it is clear that there is a need for innovation around the design of systems that can maximise yields, whilst controlling morphology and particle size distributions.

These MOFs are being used for carbon capture and, more broadly, this project relates to global warming. Sustainable CO2 capture is an immediate need, and MOFs offer an opportunity to reduce the energy penalties that are associated with existing CO2 capture technologies e.g. amine scrubbers have a colossal 35% energy penalty. MOFs could potentially reduce this impact, whilst addressing the UN Strategic Development Goals 7, 9, 12 and 13.

Aim

This project will focus on modelling and testing of new reactors with a view to optimising the best systems for production that have the highest outputs with the minimum environmental impact. You will work with Professor Ed Lester in Chemical Engineering as well as working in Promethean Particles which is based close to the campus. Their systems currently operate up to commercial scale at 10-100’s kgs/hr scale.

Who we are looking for

An enthusiastic, self-motivated individual with an interest in empirical and modelling work to test out new reactor designs.

This will involve some work with Matlab or similar program to quantify mixing systems that can effectively produce MOFs.

We are looking for a graduate expecting a 1st or a 2:1 in chemistry or chemical engineering or materials engineering.

Funding support

This is a fully funded studentship for a student with HOME (UK) status.

This would be at a stipend of £20,780 per year

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The Faculty of Engineering provides a thriving working environment for all PGRs creating a strong sense of community across research disciplines. Community and research culture is important to our PGRs and the FoE support this by working closely with our Postgraduate Research Society (PGES) and our PGR Research Group Reps to enhance the research environment for PGRs. PGRs benefit from training through the Researcher Academy’s Training Programme, those based within the Faculty of Engineering have access to bespoke courses developed for Engineering PGRs. including sessions on paper writing, networking and career development after the PhD. The Faculty has outstanding facilities and works in partnership with leading industrial partners. 

Start Date would be 1st October 2025 for 4 years.

Contact Details for any questions about the studentship edward.lester@nottingham.ac.uk 

Closing Date: 16 May 2025 Category: Studentships