PhD Studentship: Sustainable Road Binders Derived from a Biogenic Supply Chain

Positions are filled on a first‑come, first‑served basis, so early expressions of interest are encouraged.

Supervisors: Prof. Gordon Airey, Dr Anand Sreeram, Dr Nick Thom, Dr Richard Taylor
Programme length: Four years (full‑time)
Start date: 2026/27 academic year
Keywords: biogenic supply chains, sustainable materials, biobased binders, road construction

About the Net2Zero Centre for Doctoral Training

The EPSRC and BBSRC CDT in Negative Emission Technologies for Net Zero (Net2Zero) is a partnership between Aston University (lead), the University of Nottingham, Queen’s University Belfast, and the University of Warwick. The CDT trains future research leaders capable of developing technologies that remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere and replace fossil‑based systems with sustainable alternatives. Research expertise spans direct air capture, CO₂ utilisation, biochar, biomass conversion, and BECCS.

As a CDT doctoral researcher, you will:

• Build networks across academia, industry, policy, and the third sector.
• Access state‑of‑the‑art facilities and international collaboration opportunities.
• Undertake training in engineering, communication, entrepreneurship, and business skills.
• Complete a three‑month placement with industry, policymakers, or research collaborators.

Project Overview

This PhD offers an exciting opportunity to develop sustainable, biogenic materials for use as road construction binders. Current road infrastructure depends heavily on petroleum‑derived bitumen and non‑renewable aggregates, contributing significantly to carbon emissions, land use, and resource depletion.

Biobased binders are emerging as promising alternatives, offering potential benefits in carbon reduction, durability, and ageing resistance. However, widespread adoption is limited by inconsistent performance data, insufficient understanding of long‑term behaviour, and a lack of standardised testing.

This project will investigate new technological pathways for producing renewable, biogenic road binders that, when used in asphalt mixtures, could transform pavements into long‑term carbon sinks. The research will assess mechanical performance, durability, carbon reduction potential, economic feasibility, and alignment with circular‑economy principles.

The studentship is mainly funded by the Net2Zero CDT with additional support from Core Additive Technologies Ltd, which will offer opportunities for industrial placement and collaboration.

Applicant Requirements

You should hold, or expect to hold, a Master’s degree with a minimum 60% average and/or a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or international equivalent) in materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering, civil engineering, biochemistry, microbiology, or a related field.

The Net2Zero CDT is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and particularly encourages applications from groups underrepresented in higher education.

Funding

• Tax‑free stipend at UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27)
• Full tuition fees
• Research training support grant 

Open to Home‑fee‑status applicants only.

How to Apply

Submit an Expression of Interest including personal details, passport and residency evidence, academic transcripts, English‑language certification (if required), and a summary of research experience. Shortlisted candidates will meet potential supervisors before formal interviews.

Academic enquiries: gordon.airey@nottingham.ac.uk
Application enquiries: cdt_net2zero@aston.ac.uk

Apply here

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