Dual PhD: Metal Clusters/Nanoparticles on Hierarchical Zeolites for Heterogeneous Catalysis (NTHU & University of Liverpool) University of Liverpool in United Kingdom

This Dual PhD project, jointly offered by the National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) in Taiwan and the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom, provides a unique opportunity for students to earn two PhD degrees from internationally renowned institutions. The programme spans four years, with the first two years based at NTHU and the final two years at Liverpool, immersing students in diverse academic cultures and granting access to world-class research facilities across two continents.

The research focuses on the understanding of metal clusters and nanoparticles supported on hierarchical zeolites for heterogeneous catalytic processes, particularly targeting CO2 capture and conversion and hydrogenation. These processes are vital for advancing a sustainable circular CO2 economy, relying on the development of efficient catalysts with improved activity, selectivity, and stability. The project will investigate the role of catalyst topology, active sites, and metal-zeolite interactions, aiming to elucidate the fate of chemical reaction intermediates and deactivation pathways, ultimately guiding the design of superior catalytic materials.

Students will employ advanced synchrotron X-ray techniques and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMRS) to observe and characterize key reaction intermediates and their structural changes during catalysis. The project leverages the multidisciplinary expertise of supervisors at both NTHU and Liverpool, providing access to facilities such as the National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center (NSRRC) in Taiwan, state-of-the-art NMR labs, and the UK High-Field Solid-State NMR Facility. Training will encompass chemical synthesis, computational methods, and international research collaborations, ensuring comprehensive skill development and strong employability.

Funding is robust: tuition fees are fully waived for the entire duration, and students receive a maintenance stipend—TWD 15,233/month while in Taiwan and £20,780/year (UKRI rate, rising with inflation) while in Liverpool. Additional support includes a Research Training Support Grant for consumables and conference attendance, and a Disabled Students Allowance for eligible candidates. Outstanding international students may be considered for limited scholarships.

Applicants should hold a relevant undergraduate or master's degree in chemistry or a related field, pass the qualification exam in Taiwan, and meet Liverpool's English language requirements. Applications must include a cover letter (detailing motivation and commitment), a full CV, and contact details for two academic referees, sent by email to Prof. Frédéric Blanc and Prof. Chia-Min Yang. Formal application to Liverpool's PhD programme is required, referencing the project title and NTHU003. The University of Liverpool is committed to diversity and inclusion, offering reasonable project adaptations and support for students with disabilities or caring responsibilities.

The application deadline is March 15, 2026. For further details, consult the project link and Liverpool's English language requirements page.