This PhD is one of a number of projects hosted by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF). We are offering pioneering research projects that will enable PhD researchers to explore key technologies and solutions that will support UK industry to reach net zero.
Project: Resource efficiency can reduce emissions by avoiding waste and making better use of carbon-intensive materials to provide products’ functions. The opportunities are often diffuse and spread across many supply chains and industrial processes, so understanding the flow of materials through industrial systems is essential to understanding the decarbonisation benefits of resource efficiency. However, there is often a mismatch between the level of detail and disaggregation needed to relate to specific technical processes, and the miscellaneous and imperfect data that is available.
This project will develop Material Flow Analysis methods for assessing material flows and process energy requirements and waste streams, at a range of scales (process, plant, regional, national). New analysis methods will allow for probabilistic estimates, given uncertain and incomplete data. These methods will then be applied to understand material flows driving current and decarbonised processes, in specific contexts (which can be based on candidates’ and partners’ interests).
Supervisors: Dr Rick Lupton
CDT in Green Industrial Futures: The CDT is funded by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and is a partnership between Heriot Watt University, Imperial College London, and the Universities of Sheffield and Bath. The CDT is further supported by contributions from industrial partners. Bringing these leading universities together allows CDT-GIF students access to a wide range of academic expertise, resources and facilities.
The CDT-GIF has an exciting and challenging programme specifically designed for top performing junior researchers. Alongside the four-year research project, students will receive expert training and opportunities to contextualise their research within the wider net zero landscape, including:
- Residential taught courses at each of the partner universities in Years 1 and 2 that provide training in the systematic considerations for industry including: Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), technoeconomics, business models, policy & regulation, public engagement, plant operation.
- An international opportunity in Year 2 or 3 of the programme, including opportunities to visit a world-leading facility, conference or forum and explore the global context of industrial decarbonisation.
- A work placement with one of our industrial partners.
- A bespoke ‘net-zero leadership programme’, including regular exchanges with cohort members from the other universities, student-led activities, industry challenge sandpit, industrial site visits, and professional development opportunities.
Candidate requirements: As a minimum we require candidates to have a First-class or 2:1 Meng, MSc, or MA with merit (over 60%) in a relevant area i.e. Mechanical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Geoscience. Applicants who have a First-class BSc/BEng (Hons) and can demonstrate significant relevant industry/research experience may also be considered.
Experience of Industrial Ecology methods such as Material Flow Analysis or Life Cycle Analysis, or relevant data analysis and modelling skills, would be advantageous.
Non-native English speakers must ensure they meet the English language requirements.
Enquiries and applications. Informal enquiries regarding the research project can be directed to Sophia Coe sc3716@bath.ac.uk. Alternatively, if you have a question regarding the wider CDT-GIF programme, please contact cdtgreenindustrialfutures@hw.ac.uk.
Formal applications can be made here: https://greenindustrialfutures.site.hw.ac.uk/the-programme/how-to-apply/ Applications are open until filled so we would encourage early application.
The initial application involves an application form (including a short personal statement and CV). You may select up to two CDT-GIF projects. Applicants will then be selected to interview. If successful at interview, candidates will be asked to complete the application process for the home university.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We warmly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Our programme values diversity as a cornerstone of innovation and collaboration, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive. The CDT-GIF are committed to ensuring flexibility throughout our programme to support student’s needs and personal circumstances, for example those with medical conditions, caring responsibilities and other considerations. For example, we are open to exploring part-time options if appropriate for the nature of the research.
Keywords: Material Flow Analysis, Uncertainty, Resource Efficiency, Decarbonisation
The programme is four years and starts in September 2025. Funding includes full UK fees, stipend (2024/25 stipend is £19,237 excluding London weighting), plus budget for travel and consumables. The positions are in the first instance for UK students. There are limited spaces for overseas students.