Advanced Hybrid Materials for Passive Atmospheric Water Harvesting (Dual PhD: University of Liverpool & NTHU)

This Dual PhD project, "Advanced Hybrid Materials for Passive Atmospheric Water Harvesting," is a unique four-year programme jointly offered by the University of Liverpool (UK) and National Tsing Hua University (Taiwan). Successful candidates will earn two PhD degrees, benefiting from the expertise, facilities, and networks of both world-leading institutions. The programme is structured so that students spend the first two years at NTHU, focusing on molecular-level material design and synthesis, followed by two years at Liverpool, where system-level engineering, prototyping, and sustainability assessment are emphasised. The research addresses the global challenge of water scarcity by developing low-energy atmospheric water-harvesting (AWH) materials. These materials are designed to capture moisture from the air and release it using sunlight or mild heat sources. The project centres on porous, hygroscopic adsorbents integrated into sustainable composite structures, aiming for strong water uptake at low-to-moderate relative humidity, practical formability, durability, and reduced environmental footprint. The approach prioritises scalable materials design and responsible manufacturing, supporting resilient water technologies aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure). During Years 1-2 at NTHU, students will synthesise and screen high-performing porous adsorbents with stable water sorption behaviour, engineer low-cost carbon-based supports with controlled porosity and surface chemistry, and develop robust composite-fabrication routes. Standard characterisation tools (sorption analysis, thermal and structural characterisation) and performance testing under relevant humidity conditions will be used. In Years 3-4 at the University of Liverpool, the optimised composites will be translated into prototype AWH components and evaluated under controlled environmental conditions, including testing under simulated solar illumination. Key outcomes include device-level water yield, adsorption/desorption kinetics, and long-term cycling performance. The project also includes sustainability and deployment-oriented assessment, using life-cycle and techno-economic methods to benchmark performance, cost, and embodied impacts against current AWH approaches. Funding is comprehensive: both universities waive tuition fees for the full duration, and students receive a maintenance stipend (TWD 15,233/month in Taiwan; UKRI Studentship rate in Liverpool, currently £20,780/year). Additional support is available for research training, consumables, and conference attendance. Scholarships for outstanding international students and Disabled Students Allowance are also offered. The programme is inclusive and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, including those with caring responsibilities or disabilities. Applicants should have a strong academic background in engineering, chemistry, materials science, or related fields. The position is open to both home and international students. To apply, complete the University of Liverpool online postgraduate research application form for a PhD in Civil Engineering, including the project title and reference number NTHU002. The application deadline is March 15, 2026. This project offers a rich cultural experience, access to large-scale national facilities, and the opportunity to build a global network across two continents. It is ideal for students interested in advanced materials, sustainable water technologies, and interdisciplinary research bridging chemistry, engineering, and environmental science.