Catalytic Conversion of Waste Biomass into Valuable Chemicals and Fuels

This PhD project presents an exciting opportunity to advance research and innovation in developing efficient catalytic processes to transform converting lignocellulosic waste into valuable chemicals and fuels. Biofuels and biochemicals paves the way toward net-zero emissions, the project aims to address the critical need for scalable and cost-effective production methods, supporting a greener and more sustainable future industry.

<p>This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity for research and innovation into transforming lignocellulosic waste into valuable chemicals and fuels. With the increasing demand for sustainable alternatives, this research will explore efficient catalytic processes to convert renewable biomass into valuable products, such as bio-based chemicals and renewable fuels. These advancements will contribute to reducing dependency on fossil resources, supporting global sustainability goals, and promoting a greener chemical industry. Developing cost-effective, scalable production methods is crucial to achieving a more sustainable future for energy and materials.</p> <p>The successful applicant will join an enthusiastic research team at the School of Chemical and Process Engineering at the University of Leeds. Working at the Chemical Engineering-Chemistry interface, the successful applicant will gain hands-on experience in developing novel catalytic materials and advanced analytical tools, including spectroscopic and microscopic techniques through our state-of-the-art facilities at Bragg Centre for Materials Research. They will also have the opportunity to attend national and international conferences during their PhD studies. Equipped with knowledge and skills related to heterogeneous catalysis and applied green chemistry, the PhD graduate will be able to work in various sectors, from catalyst manufacturing industry and nanomaterials to the rapidly growing bioenergy and biochemicals.</p> <p>The application process is in 2 stages:</p> <ol> <li>You must apply for your academic place on your PhD Programme and you will be issued with your Student ID Number</li> <li>Once you have received your Student ID, you will need to apply separately for the Scholarship. </li> </ol>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Chemical & Process Engineering FT</strong></em> and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Catalytic Conversion of Waste Biomass into Valuable Chemicals and Fuels</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemical-engineering/staff/15548/dr-amin-osatiashtiani">Dr Amin Osatiashtiani</a> as your proposed supervisor. <em><strong>Please state clearly in the Finance section that you are applying for China Scholarship Council-University of Leeds Award 2025/26.</strong></em></p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 3 January 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Evidence of meeting English Language – this is mandatory as part of the CSC-University of Leeds Scholarship Application</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p>The <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/48-china-scholarship-council-university-of-leeds-scholarships-2021">China Scholarship Council - University of Leeds Scholarship</a> (CSC) is available to nationals of China <strong>(scholarship closing date: Monday 6 January 2025).  Important Note: </strong>Please refer to the linked information about CSC-University of Leeds Scholarship.</p> <p>This award provide full academic fees from the University of Leeds.  You must have been successful for the fee award, to be able to apply for your maintenance from CSC China.  To take up the award, you must have been awarded the Leeds Fee award and the CSC Maintenance award.</p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">You will be responsible for paying the overtime fee in full in your writing up/overtime year (£320 in Session 2024/25), but the scholarship maintenance allowance will continue to be paid for up to 6 months in the final year of award.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong> Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Amin Osatiashtiani by email to <a href="mailto:a.osatiashtiani@leeds.ac.uk">a.osatiashtiani@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>