PhD in Chemistry - New catalysts for acetylene processes enabling a sustainable future

About the Project

A funded PhD studentship is available in the Max Planck Centre on the Fundamentals of Heterogeneous Catalysts which is based in the Cardiff Catalysis Institute at Cardiff University.

The project is part of an international EPSRC centre-to-centre collaboration between institutions in the UK (Cardiff University and Harwell), Germany (MPI-KOFO and FHI-Berlin) and Spain (ITQ) focusing on new catalysts for acetylene chemistry (https://gtr.ukri.org/projects?ref=EP%2FZ531285%2F1#/tabOverview).

Catalysis underpins many of the critical manufacturing processes of chemicals required for society’s well-being, and designing improved catalysts is a pivotal requirement to solve the major challenges we face with climate change. One major challenge is the dependence of the chemical industry on fossil derived carbon. The production of methane from biogas and subsequent formation of acetylene allows for the possibility of using this molecule as an important chemical intermediate to replace existing routes. This project will focus on the development of novel heterogeneous catalysts for two key industrial acetylene processes; selective hydrogenation to ethylene, and hydrochlorination to vinyl chloride.

The studentship will involve interaction with partners across all institutes and with leading experts in the synthesis, characterisation and evaluation of heterogeneous catalysts.

Academic criteria

We require applicants to have a 2.1 BSc or equivalent to be considered for PhD study.

English Language

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent) English language requirements for postgraduate students - Study - Cardiff University

Supervisors

Professor Graham Hutchings Professor Graham Hutchings - People - Cardiff University

Professor Stuart Taylor Professor Stuart Taylor - People - Cardiff University

Start date 1st October 2026

How to apply

Please complete an online application, stating your supervisor’s name(s):

https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/chemistry

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.

Funding Notes

This is a 3.5 year funded PhD post for Home students. The funding covers all tuition fees with a stipend at the UKRI level: Support for UKRI-funded students – UKRI