Electrochemical Optimisation for Waste-to-Value Conversion of Spent Coffee Grounds

About the Project

Spent coffee grounds (SCG) are produced at scale by cafés, roasters, offices and households, yet are commonly downcycled or go to landfill. This PhD will develop electrochemical optimisation strategies to convert SCG-derived feedstocks into higher-value chemicals and materials, enabling a circular, low-waste route for valorisation.

Electrochemical synthesis offers tuneable selectivity through potential control and can reduce reliance on stoichiometric oxidants/reductants. A central theme of this PhD is multi-parameter optimisation to “dial in” desired products and suppress over-oxidation, side reactions, and degradation. Translating electroanalytical understanding into preparative, waste-to-value outcomes.

The project is designed for candidates who want to work at the interface of electrochemistry, reaction engineering, and sustainable waste-to-value processing, with a strong emphasis on systematic optimisation.

Research aims

The final scope will be tailored to the successful applicant and may include:

SCG feedstock preparation and fractionation: aqueous/solvent extraction, hydrolysis or pre-treatment to generate electrochemically addressable streams.

Electrochemical upgrading and selective transformation: develop anodic and/or cathodic routes to convert target molecules into value-added products, prioritising selectivity and scalability.

Candidate profile

A strong undergraduate or Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Environmental Science/Engineering, or a related discipline.

Demonstrable interest in electrochemistry and experimental research.

Ability to work independently, manage lab work safely, and communicate results clearly in different formats.

English language proficiency meeting institutional requirements.

Desirable

Experience with electrochemical techniques and/or analytical chemistry.

Familiarity with design of experiments (DoE), optimisation, and data analysis.

Interest in circular economy, green chemistry, and process scale-up.

Training and environment

The student will receive training in: Electroanalytical method development and interpretation; Preparative electrolysis and reactor/cell configuration; quantitative product analysis and method validation; optimisation strategies (DoE, response surfaces, multi-objective optimisation).