Design and synthesis of mesoporous zeolite catalysts for the conversion of sugars into biofuels and high-value chemicals

About the Project

Developing sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels is one of the major challenges in modern chemistry. A promising approach is to convert renewable biomass into transportation fuels and value-added chemicals. This project aims to design and synthesise mesoporous zeolite catalysts capable of transforming sugars such as glucose and fructose into energy-rich intermediates like levulinic acid, a key building block for fuels, fine chemicals, and polymers.

Zeolites are nanostructured aluminosilicate materials featuring microporous and mesoporous frameworks, which make them highly versatile in catalysis. In this PhD, you will explore how composition, porosity, and metal doping influence catalytic performance, contributing to the development of greener and more efficient routes to biofuel production.

You will gain hands-on experience in heterogeneous catalyst synthesis, XRD, HPLC, GC-MS analysis, kinetic studies, and catalyst design, working at the interface of materials chemistry, catalysis, and sustainable energy research. The project may also involve collaborations with external institutions.

Eligibility and Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, at least an upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.

A Master’s degree with Merit or above in a relevant subject would be advantageous.

Experience in catalysis, inorganic synthesis, or analytical chemistry is desirable but not essential.

How to Apply

Please apply through the University of Sheffield online application portal for postgraduate research in Chemistry:

https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply

When completing your application, please specify Dr Marco Conte as the proposed supervisor and include the project title in your research proposal section.

Funding Notes

This is a self-funded project. Candidates must be able to provide funding to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs for the duration of the PhD.

Fee Status Eligibility

This project is open to UK and international self-funded candidates.