University of Nottingham
1 week ago
PhD Studentship: Net2Zero Development and Demonstration of a Laboratory-Scale Multifunctional Reactor for Biochar Production and BECCS Technology University of Nottingham in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Nottingham
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About this position
University of Nottingham is offering a fully funded PhD studentship in the Net2Zero CDT on the development and demonstration of a laboratory-scale next generation multifunctional reactor for biochar production and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology.
The project is positioned at the intersection of reactor engineering, biomass conversion, biochar production, and carbon capture. The successful PhD researcher will work on a laboratory-scale system that can operate as both a biochar/bio-syngas generator and a BECCS reactor, supporting net-zero and greenhouse gas removal research.
Research activities include conceptual design of a laboratory-scale electrically heated furnace with a commercial laboratory furnace manufacturer, and the manufacture of at least two reactor configurations (fluidised-bed and fixed-bed) in collaboration with University engineering technicians. These reactor systems will be integrated for biochar production and BECCS evaluation using calcium-based and other solid sorbents.
The project also includes experimental work with a range of biomass feedstocks, followed by characterisation of produced biochar using advanced analytical facilities at Nottingham, including BET surface area analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). CO₂ capture experiments will be carried out using the multifunctional reactor testing system, first with simulated CO₂-containing gas streams and later with real flue gases.
This studentship is well suited to candidates interested in sustainable energy systems, low-carbon technologies, sorbents, and experimental process engineering. The project is described as a 4-year PhD starting in October 2026.
Application deadline: 30 November 2026.
For administrative queries regarding eligibility, the application process, funding, or the Net2Zero CDT programme, contact the Net2Zero CDT Team at [email protected]. Apply via the vacancy page: https://jobs.nottingham.ac.uk/ENG415.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should be eligible for the Net2Zero CDT PhD programme. The project is suited to candidates with an interest in reactor engineering, biochar production, biomass utilisation, carbon capture, and experimental laboratory work. No specific degree classification, language score, or prerequisite skills are stated in the advert, but the project implies the ability to work with engineering technicians, perform experiments, and use advanced analytical techniques such as BET, SEM, XRD, and TGA.
How to apply
Apply through the University of Nottingham vacancy page using the application link provided. Review the Net2Zero CDT eligibility and application guidance before submitting. For questions about eligibility, funding, or the application process, contact the Net2Zero CDT Team by email.
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