PhD in Reservoir Characterisation and Modelling of CO₂ Storage Underground (CDT Green Industrial Futures) Imperial College London in United Kingdom

This PhD opportunity, hosted by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF) at Imperial College London, focuses on the advanced characterisation and modelling of CO₂ storage underground. The project aims to address critical challenges in accurately simulating the migration and trapping of injected CO₂ at industrial-scale storage sites. Current models often fail to predict the observed movement of CO₂, largely due to small-scale heterogeneities in reservoir systems. Recent research in the Subsurface CO₂ Storage Research group has identified these heterogeneities as a key source of modelling discrepancies.

As part of a cohort of pioneering research projects, this PhD will contribute to the development of technologies and solutions supporting the UK's net zero industrial goals. The CDT-GIF is a partnership between Imperial College London, Heriot Watt University, the Universities of Sheffield and Bath, and is funded by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, with additional support from industrial partners. Students benefit from access to a wide range of academic expertise, resources, and facilities across these leading institutions.

The four-year programme includes comprehensive training and professional development. Students participate in residential taught courses at partner universities, covering topics such as Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), technoeconomics, business models, policy and regulation, public engagement, and plant operation. There are opportunities for international experiences in the second or third year, including visits to world-leading facilities, conferences, or forums to explore the global context of industrial decarbonisation. A work placement with an industrial partner and a bespoke net-zero leadership programme further enhance the student experience, offering regular exchanges, student-led activities, industry challenge sandpits, site visits, and professional development.

Funding for this position includes full UK tuition fees, a tax-free stipend (£20,780 for 2025/2026 plus approximately £2,000 London weighting), and a budget for travel and consumables. The programme is designed for top-performing junior researchers with a strong background in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Geoscience, or related fields. Candidates with relevant MA degrees in socio-politico-economic topics or those with significant industry or research experience may also be considered. Applicants must meet the entry requirements of Imperial College London.

Applications are accepted year-round. Interested candidates should review the eligibility criteria and entry requirements, contact [email protected] for enquiries, and visit the CDT-GIF application portal for further details and to apply.