PhD in Chemistry: Synthesis of dimethylnaphthalenes by alkylation of toluene with biobased alcohols over solid acid catalysts

About the Project

This PhD project targets the synthesis of dimethylnaphthalenes by the 1-step alkylation of toluene with biobased diols. We will investigate different acid catalysts and will adjust the acid strength by post-synthesis protocols. This reaction will allow scalability and easy implementation in already existing industrial alkylation reactors.

The experiments will be conducted both in the liquid phase under pressure (autoclave, temperature lower than 265 ºC) or in the gas phase (fixed bed reactor, temperature higher than 265 ºC) at near-ambient pressure. The selectivity towards the target dimethylnaphthalene will be controlled by implementing confinement effects using different catalyst topologies.

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate with a solid background in Heterogeneous Catalysis. The candidate will prepare solid acid catalysts, characterise them using cutting-edge techniques, and rationalise activity-structure properties for the synthesis of dimethylnaphthalenes in collaboration with a second PhD working on computational modelling. The candidate will work in strong synergy with a multinational and multicultural cohort of PhDs and research associates.

The project will be executed at the Cardiff Catalysis Institute (CCI). The Institute has dedicated catalyst preparation facilities, including a suite of autoclave reactors and a multifunctional 32-bed gas phase high-throughput reactor system. The CCI is also extensively equipped with catalyst characterisation techniques, including ex- and in-situ XRD, XPS, HR-TEM, aberration-corrected STEM, gas adsorption equipment (BET, pore analysis, metal dispersion), in-situ UV-Vis, in-situ DRIFTS, Temperature Programmed analysis and Thermal Gravimetric Analysis.

Academic criteria

Candidates should hold or expect to gain a first class degree or a good 2.1 and/or an appropriate Master’s level qualification (or their equivalent).

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 Marc Pera Titus

Start date 1 April, 1 July, 1 October 2026 (can be discussed with supervisor).

We reserve the right to close this advert should sufficient applications be received. Early application is advised.

To apply please complete an online application, stating your supervisor’s name(s) and project title Chemistry - Study - Cardiff University

We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented backgrounds, such as women, ethnic minorities, or people with disabilities. We will make reasonable adjustments at interview and/or in the position as requested.

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 a 3 year Home (UK) funded post, covering UK level tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate -Get a studentship to fund your doctorate – UKRI

For 2025/2026 academic year, 'EU' students will be eligible for UK level PGR tuition fees at Cardiff University, so can be considered for this full funding. More details can be found here - Postgraduate research fee discount for EU students - Study - Cardiff University

This studentship is open to Home, EU or Overseas Candidates. However, Overseas candidates should note that they will be required to cover the difference between Home and Overseas fees each year.