PhD Studentship: Plasma Catalysis for Sustainable Production of Fuels

A 3.5-year fully funded PhD position is available under the supervision of Prof. Xin Tu at the University of Liverpool. The position will remain open until filled, so please get in touch at your earliest convenience.

Background

The conversion of inert molecules (e.g., CO₂, CH₄, and N₂) with strong chemical bonds for the synthesis of value-added fuels and chemicals has attracted significant interest. However, activating these thermodynamically stable molecules remains a major challenge, as they require significant energy input. Non-thermal plasma (NTP) has emerged as a promising technology for electrifying a variety of challenging chemical reactions at ambient conditions. Combining NTP with tailored catalysts unlocks unique reaction pathways, promoting selective activation at low temperatures. Furthermore, plasma processes offer the advantage of being readily switched on and off, providing excellent flexibility for decentralised fuel and chemical production powered by intermittent renewable energy sources. However, plasma catalysis still faces key challenges: low energy efficiency and a limited understanding of reaction mechanism, imposing a significant barrier to their wider adoption.

The Project: This PhD studentship will focus on overcoming current limitations in plasma catalysis for the synthesis of fuels and chemicals (e.g., CO₂ hydrogenation, N₂ activation) at ambient conditions. The project will explore rational catalyst design that considers the unique aspects introduced by the plasma environment. Novel insights into reaction mechanisms, particularly those involving plasma-assisted surface reactions, will be investigated through the use of in situ plasma diagnostics and comprehensive characterisation techniques.

Training: The successful candidate will join an enthusiastic team that provides a collaborative and supportive environment (View website). This project will provide specialised training in plasma reactor design, operation and monitoring, catalyst synthesis, evaluation and characterisation, gas and liquid analysis, as well as plasma diagnostics. The student will be trained in the dissemination of research output through writing scientific papers/patents and presenting at conferences.

Candidate Requirements: The candidate should have, or be expecting to achieve, a first or upper second-class Honours degree or equivalent in the subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Material Science or a related discipline with an interest in catalysis and/or plasma catalysis. Prior research experience in heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis or plasma catalysis is highly desirable. Moreover, the candidate must be motivated, enthusiastic and keen to learn new skills.

How to Apply: In the first instance, please contact Prof. Xin Tu to express your interest. Please include your CV and a motivation letter: xin.tu@liverpool.ac.uk

The position will remain open until filled so please get in touch as early as possible.

Funding Notes: The studentship is fully funded for 3.5 years and covers tuition fees at the home rate, alone with a tax-free stipend. Overseas candidates able to pay the tuition fee difference will still be considered for the position.

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