Advanced, Low-Cost Titanium-Based Composites for Water Remediation via Photocatalysis and Adsorption Kingston University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Kingston University, supervised by Dr Ayomi S. Perera within the Perera Research Group, focuses on the development of advanced, low-cost titanium-based nanocomposites for water remediation using photocatalysis and adsorption. The research leverages solar energy—the most abundant and sustainable renewable resource—to drive innovative solutions for clean water and environmental sustainability. A unique aspect of the project is the valorisation of industrial waste, such as glycerol from biodiesel production, as a templating agent in the synthesis of photocatalysts, directly addressing global challenges in resource efficiency and waste reduction.

The project aims to develop novel porous titanium-based nanomaterials (including TiO₂, FTO, and titanosilicates) with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity. Research themes include sustainable synthesis of photoactive nanomaterials, use of environmentally benign and low-cost templating agents, band gap engineering via metal-ion doping (e.g., Bi, Fe, Cu), composite formation with 2D materials like graphene, and the study of structure–property–performance relationships in photocatalysis. Applications are targeted at solar-driven water purification, pollutant degradation, and renewable energy conversion, contributing to global sustainability and clean-water initiatives.

Sustainability is central to this research, with a strong emphasis on circular economy materials design, waste-to-value nanomaterials, scalable and low-cost synthesis routes, and material recyclability and reusability. The project offers comprehensive, hands-on training in advanced materials synthesis and characterisation, photocatalytic testing, data analysis, scientific writing, literature review, and independent research design. The Perera Research Group provides a supportive, research-led environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for national and international collaboration.

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) a First or Upper Second-Class (2:1) Master’s degree (e.g., MChem, MSc, MRes) or equivalent in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or a related discipline. The ideal candidate will demonstrate curiosity, creativity, enthusiasm for scientific research, interest in nanomaterials and catalysis, awareness of sustainability and circular economy approaches, strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, and a willingness to develop scientific writing and data interpretation abilities.

This project is included in the Kingston University Graduate School studentships competition for October 2026 entry. Applicants should initially apply as 'self-funded'; this status will be updated internally if a studentship is awarded. For further details, see the Kingston University PhD Studentships page. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Ayomi S. Perera for informal enquiries and to discuss their suitability prior to applying. The application deadline is March 4, 2026.