PhD Studentship: Pressurised Ion Transport in Nanoporous Materials
[Fully funded position for students worldwide, including relocation support and travel fund between Birmingham and Melbourne.]
This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Birmingham, in collaboration with the University of Melbourne, investigates pressurised ion transport in nanoporous materials, with a focus on Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) such as ZIF-8. The project explores how water and ions behave under nanoconfinement, which differs significantly from bulk electrolytes and has promising applications in energy storage, mechanical energy absorption, and ion separation technologies.
Research in Dr Yueting Sun’s group at Birmingham has demonstrated the potential of MOFs as efficient and reusable mechanical energy absorbers, especially hydrophobic cage-type zeolitic frameworks. Prof Zhe Liu’s group at Melbourne contributes expertise in molecular simulations, revealing fundamental ion transport phenomena in sub-nanometer pores, drawing parallels to biological ion channels and their ultrafast, selective transport properties.
The PhD project is highly interdisciplinary, suitable for candidates from chemistry, mechanical engineering, materials science, physics, mechanics, or crystallography backgrounds. You will spend time at both universities, gaining access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities in Birmingham and advanced molecular simulation platforms in Melbourne. The project aims to advance knowledge for the rational design of efficient energy absorption and storage systems, as well as accelerated ion separation and energy conversion technologies.
As part of this joint initiative, you will benefit from the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship of Dr Yueting Sun and the Australian Future Fellowship of Prof Zhe Liu, including support for career and professional development, training, and development opportunities. The position is fully funded for students worldwide, with additional relocation support and travel funds between Birmingham and Melbourne. The universities are committed to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, providing a supportive environment for research and personal growth.
Applicants should have a good degree (UK First or at least a 2:1) in a relevant discipline and a collaborative attitude. To apply, email Dr Yueting Sun or Prof Zhe Liu with your CV, and consult the application link for further details. The deadline for applications is April 30, 2026.
