PhD Studentship: Catalytic conversion of NH3 and NOx for sustainable energy applications

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with strong interest in catalysis and hydrogen economy to take up this exciting PhD project. You will be supervised by Professor Qiong Cai, and Dr Kelly Kousi within the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and collaborate with other postdoctoral researchers and PhD students who work on experimental synthesis of catalysts and testing catalysts using both thermochemical and electrochemical methods. You will develop skills in catalysis, electrochemical engineering, advanced characterisations, and computational studies to understand reaction mechanisms for NH₃ and NO_x conversion. You will have opportunities to collaborate with scientists at the UK and European synchrotron centres, as well as international research groups for advanced characterization of the catalysts and reaction mechanisms.

The University of Surrey is ranked 12^th in the UK in the 2025 Complete University Guide and was awarded The University of the Year for Graduate Employment in 2021. You will be well supported for your PhD journey and your career development with comprehensive tailor-designed training programme, mentoring schemes, and one-to-one career advice and support offered to all researchers within the University of Surrey.

Supervisors: Professor Qiong Cai, Dr Marco Sacchi Dr Kelly Kousi and Dr Tomas Ramirez Reina

Entry requirements

Open to candidates who pay UK/home rate fees. See UKCISA for further information. Starting in October 2025. Later start dates may be possible, please contact Professor Qiong Cai once the deadline passes.

You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in any of the following disciplines: Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, Physics or other relevant major degrees. Prior experience in research projects is desirable but not essential.

How to apply

Any interested candidates should apply online by clicking the 'Apply' button, above, 
by 10 June 2025.

Before you apply, please send your CV (with details of educational background, academic achievements, and any research experience) to Professor Qiong Cai (Q.Cai@surrey.ac.uk) to discuss the suitability of your academic background for this PhD project.

Funding

Fully and directly funded for this project only for 3.5 years. Full UK tuition fee waiver. Stipend at UKRI rates (£20,780 for 2025-26).

Application deadline: 10 June 2025

Enquiries: Contact Professor Qiong Cai

Ref: PGR-2425-059

Advert information