A I Cooper

This PhD opportunity at the University of Liverpool, Department of Chemistry, offers a unique chance to contribute to the discovery of advanced CO2-capture materials using cutting-edge robotics and artificial intelligence. The project, co-funded by a financial gift from Google, aims to develop a global ‘Hive Mind’—a delocalised network that coordinates autonomous laboratory robots to accelerate the discovery of engineered porous materials for atmospheric CO2 capture. This interdisciplinary research integrates computational chemistry, AI, software engineering, mechanical engineering, robotics, and polymer science. Students will work within a collaborative team led by Professor A I Cooper, Dr X Evangelopoulos, Dr G Pizzuto, and Dr J Ayme, engaging with both experimental and computational approaches. The research will involve designing and programming autonomous robots, developing AI algorithms for materials selection, and synthesizing novel porous polymers and frameworks. The project is ideal for candidates interested in the intersection of chemistry, engineering, and computer science, and who are motivated by environmental challenges and technological innovation. Applicants should have a strong academic background in Chemistry, Materials Science, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields. Experience or keen interest in computational methods, robotics, or AI is highly desirable. The position requires good communication skills and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment. English language proficiency is necessary for non-native speakers. While the funding details are not specified, the project benefits from significant external support and offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. The application deadline is 31 March 2026, providing ample time for interested candidates to prepare their materials. For further information and to apply, visit the project link on FindAPhD or contact the supervisors directly.

This PhD project at the University of Liverpool, co-funded by a financial gift from Google, aims to revolutionize laboratory automation by developing a global ‘Hive Mind’ that coordinates autonomous robotic chemists. The research focuses on the discovery of engineered porous materials for atmospheric CO2 capture, addressing urgent environmental challenges through advanced computational and experimental approaches. Hosted in the Department of Chemistry, the project integrates computational chemistry, artificial intelligence, machine learning, human-computer interaction, and software engineering. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team led by Professors A I Cooper and K Atkinson, and Drs X Evangelopoulos and G Pizzuto, working at the intersection of chemistry, robotics, and computer science. The project leverages state-of-the-art laboratory robots and cloud-based AI systems to accelerate materials discovery, with a strong emphasis on environmental impact and sustainability. Applicants should have a strong academic background in Chemistry, Computer Science, Materials Science, Engineering, or related fields. Experience or interest in artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, or computational chemistry is highly desirable. Programming skills and laboratory experience will be advantageous. English language proficiency is required according to University of Liverpool standards. Funding details are not specified in the current announcement. The project is supported by Google, indicating potential for high-impact research and collaboration. The application deadline is 31 August 2026. Prospective students are encouraged to apply online via the University of Liverpool portal, submitting a CV, academic transcripts, and a cover letter. For further information, applicants may contact the supervisors directly. This opportunity is ideal for students passionate about combining chemistry, AI, and robotics to address global environmental issues and advance the frontiers of autonomous scientific discovery.