Richard Barker

Fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Leeds for a UK fee-rated applicant, focused on Unravelling Corrosion Mechanisms in Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Systems . This doctoral project is hosted across the School of Mechanical Engineering and the School of Chemical and Process Engineering , in collaboration with TWI . The research sits at the intersection of materials science , chemical engineering , mechanical engineering , and environmental science , with a strong emphasis on corrosion science for net-zero infrastructure. The project investigates how impurity-containing CO₂ streams can lead to acid formation, aqueous phase breakout, and corrosion initiation in supercritical CO₂ transport and storage systems. Research topics include corrosion mechanisms in mixed impurity environments, phase behaviour in supercritical CO₂, electrochemical and electrical resistance monitoring, quartz crystal microbalance measurements, and defining impurity thresholds to support safe industry standards. Funding includes full UK tuition fees and a tax-free stipend of approximately £21,805 per year for 3.5 years , with training and support provided. The opportunity is funded through an EPSRC Faculty Doctoral Training Partnership award, and there is 1 funded place available. Eligibility is restricted to UK applicants who are eligible for Home fee status. Applicants should normally hold at least a first-class or upper second-class British Bachelors Honours degree, or equivalent, in an appropriate discipline; some cases may require a Masters degree. If English is not your first language, the minimum requirement stated is IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component or equivalent. To apply, submit a formal research degree application through the University of Leeds website. Use the research postgraduate application route, select EPSRC DTP – Engineering , and set the proposed start date to 1 October 2026 . In the research information section, clearly state the project title and name Professor Richard Barker as your proposed supervisor. Required documents include transcripts, a personal statement, and a CV. The application deadline is 30 June 2026 . Applications are reviewed after the closing date, though candidates are encouraged to apply early and contact the supervisor for an informal discussion beforehand.

PhD opportunity at the University of Leeds on Understanding and Predicting CaCO3 Growth on Subsea Infrastructure . This project investigates the formation and growth of calcareous deposits (CaCO3) on subsea infrastructure and their impact on cathodic protection systems. The research combines experimental investigation, advanced characterisation, electrochemical analysis, and predictive modelling to improve offshore engineering design. The project is undertaken in collaboration with Deepwater EU Ltd. , offering an industry-linked research environment with real-world engineering relevance. Funding: EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award with full academic fees and a tax-free maintenance stipend for 3.5 years. Eligibility: Applicants must be eligible for UK/Home fees. Suitable backgrounds include mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, materials science, or related disciplines, especially for candidates interested in corrosion science, electrochemistry, and experimental research. Deadline: 18 November 2026. Start date: 1 October 2027. Apply via the project link provided in the post.