PhD Studentship in Surface Science and Heterogeneous Catalysis at University of St Andrews University of St Andrews in United Kingdom

A PhD studentship is available in the research group of Professor Christopher Baddeley at the University of St Andrews, in collaboration with BASF (Ludwigshafen, Germany).

The project sits in surface science and heterogeneous catalysis, with a focus on understanding how additives influence the surface of the active metal in heterogeneous fixed-bed hydrogenation catalysts. The research will involve detailed characterisation of catalyst structure, composition, and surface chemistry during and after activation.

Students will use a strong suite of analytical and surface-science methods, including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) as the primary technique, complemented by in situ powder X-ray diffraction (pXRD), electron microscopy, and surface vibrational spectroscopy (DRIFTS). The wider School of Chemistry also offers access to advanced facilities such as solution and solid-state NMR, thermal analysis, mass spectrometry, and other surface analytical tools.

The surface science group additionally works with ultrahigh vacuum systems for studies of model catalytic systems, including scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM), high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS), and temperature programmed desorption (TPD). Regular progress meetings will involve colleagues at BASF, indicating an industrially connected research environment.

This is a PhD-level opening in chemistry with strong materials and catalysis content. The post does not mention a deadline, stipend amount, or formal eligibility criteria, so interested applicants should contact Professor Baddeley directly for details. The post provides an email contact and points to further postgraduate research information for the EaStCHEM School of Chemistry.