PhD Studentship in Bayesian Optimisation Considering Late-Stage Process Design UCL in United Kingdom

[Fully funded for 4 years: circa £23,805 per annum stipend plus UK home tuition fees. Overseas students may apply but must cover the difference between home and overseas tuition fees.]

The Department of Chemical Engineering at University College London (UCL) is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship in Process Systems Engineering, focusing on Bayesian optimisation and late-stage process design. This project addresses the challenge of suboptimal process outcomes in the chemical and process industries, where early-stage design decisions often lock in parameters that are difficult or costly to revise later. By integrating data-driven optimisation, design of experiments, and model-based process optimisation, the research aims to develop computational tools that enable more flexible and efficient process and reaction optimisation, even at late development stages.

The successful candidate will work on the development of hybrid strategies combining digital twins, process engineering fundamentals, and advanced machine learning techniques, particularly Bayesian statistics and optimisation. The project involves formulating and solving optimisation problems, developing and implementing algorithms, and focusing on data efficiency through innovative modelling and system identification methodologies. Industrially relevant case studies in bioprocessing and specialised chemicals will provide practical context and collaboration opportunities with both academic and industry partners, including the Sargent Centre.

Applicants should have a strong background in engineering or related STEM fields, with a keen interest in computational research, coding, numerical optimisation, and machine learning. Prior experience in these areas, as well as in chemical process design, is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will demonstrate scientific rigour, creativity, independence, and a collaborative spirit. Overseas applicants are welcome but must provide proof of ability to cover the difference between UK home and overseas tuition fees.

The studentship provides a stipend of approximately £23,805 per annum and covers UK home tuition fees for four years. The start date is October 2026. Applications should be submitted through the UCL online portal, nominating Dr Eike Cramer as supervisor and including a statement of interest. For informal enquiries, candidates may contact Dr Eike Cramer at [email protected]. Further details about the MPhil/PhD program and application process can be found on the UCL Chemical Engineering website.