PhD Studentship: Low-emission Ammonia Combustion through Smart Material Design

This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated individual to contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of sustainable energy technologies. Focusing on novel low-emission ammonia combustion and oxidation processes, this position is situated within the esteemed Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nottingham.

The Opportunity: A Deep Dive into Clean Energy Solutions

Ammonia is rapidly emerging as a critical player in the global pursuit of net-zero emissions. Its potential as a carbon-free fuel is immense, particularly for decarbonizing energy-intensive sectors like power generation and shipping. However, unlocking this potential requires overcoming significant challenges: ammonia's inherent low reactivity and the generation of undesirable nitrogen emissions (NOₓ and N₂O).

This PhD project directly addresses these hurdles by investigating innovative routes for low-NOₓ and low-N₂O ammonia utilization through advanced catalytic material design. This is a truly interdisciplinary endeavor, offering a chance to:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the state-of-the-art technologies in ammonia combustion and oxidation.
• Engage in theory-driven material screening and the development of cutting-edge materials for efficient and low-emission ammonia conversion.
• Undertake both experimental investigations and sophisticated computational simulations of combustion processes.

The ultimate goal is to develop and understand a novel reaction scheme for ammonia combustion that significantly reduces nitrogen emissions. Successful outcomes will demonstrate the feasibility of an environmentally responsible approach to ammonia utilization, making a tangible contribution to achieving engineering net-zero goals.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Researchers:

• Cutting-Edge Research: Be at the forefront of clean energy innovation, working on a topic with direct global impact.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Benefit from the rich expertise at the University of Nottingham and forge strong connections with collaborators at prestigious institutions such as the University of Cambridge and Newcastle University.
• Comprehensive Skill Development: Acquire a robust skill set encompassing material science, chemical engineering, experimental techniques, and computational modeling.
• Contribution to a Sustainable Future: Play a vital role in developing solutions for a cleaner planet and a more sustainable energy landscape.
• Academic Excellence: Conduct your research within a leading Faculty of Engineering, renowned for its research impact and academic rigor.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Academic Foundation: A strong first-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemical Engineering, Material Science, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline is required. A 2:1 degree may be considered if supported by other compelling criteria.
• Research Aptitude: Demonstrable strong analytical skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and a genuine passion for research are essential.
• Proactive and Self-Driven: This project demands a self-motivated individual who can take initiative and drive their research forward independently.
• Funding Pathway: Funding for this position is subject to an internal competition upon identifying a suitable candidate.

This PhD project presents a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about sustainable energy to make a significant contribution to a critical global challenge. If you are seeking a challenging and rewarding research experience at the intersection of advanced materials and clean energy, this project at the University of Nottingham could be the ideal next step in your career path.