PhD Studentship: Photocatalysis for Sustainable Fuels and Chemicals University of Cambridge in United Kingdom

[Maintenance grant at UKRI national rate and tuition fees at UK/home rate. Non-UK applicants must fund overseas fees differential.]

The University of Cambridge invites applications for a 3.5-year PhD studentship in the field of photocatalysis, commencing October 2026. This opportunity is based in the Reisner Laboratory, led by Professor Erwin Reisner, renowned for pioneering research in solar energy conversion and the development of sustainable fuels and chemicals. The group employs a unique cross-disciplinary approach to address challenges in the circular economy, focusing on the transformation of solar energy and renewable electricity into valuable organic platform chemicals.

The PhD project aims to develop innovative fundamental approaches in photocatalysis for the capture and utilisation of greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2), biomass, or plastic wastes. The goal is to produce green fuels and commodity chemicals, contributing to environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. The successful candidate will join a world-leading team and engage in research that advances concepts in photocatalysis, specifically targeting the conversion of CO2 into renewable fuels and chemicals.

The Reisner Laboratory offers an international and multi-disciplinary environment, fostering collaboration and cross-disciplinary science. Further information about the group’s research can be found at https://www.ch.cam.ac.uk/person/er376. The Department of Chemistry at Cambridge provides a vibrant research community and extensive resources for students.

Funding: The studentship includes a maintenance grant at the UKRI national rate and covers tuition fees at the UK/home rate. Non-UK applicants are welcome but must be able to fund the overseas fees differential.

Eligibility: Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, at least a UK upper second class Master's degree in chemistry or a closely related discipline relevant to the project. A strong academic background and interest in photocatalysis, sustainable chemistry, and related fields are preferred. The University actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from all sections of society.

Application Process: Applications should be submitted via the University Applicant Portal for the course 'PhD in Chemistry', naming Professor Erwin Reisner as the potential supervisor. Please quote reference MA49486 in your application and correspondence. For queries about the studentship, contact Prof. Reisner at [email protected]. The application deadline is 14 May 2026.

For more information about the Department of Chemistry, visit http://www.ch.cam.ac.uk.