It is accepted that hydrogen produced from various biomass sources is likely to be play a significant part of a hydrogen future energy. However, for a biomass route to hydrogen it is imperative that the conversion processes available are improved and technologies that can process a range of different biomass feeds are evaluated.
The project will maximise the degree of biomass hydrolysis and production yield of acetate and butyrate by reducing product inhibition from volatile fatty acids using the membrane extraction system thereby increasing hydrogen yield. The PhD will potentially be in collaboration with industry and would require a degree in chemical engineering, biochemistry or chemistry. The student will conduct their research in the new Sustainable Environment Research Centre Laboratories which are internationally leading in the field of dark bio-hydrogen processes.
Bursary: The successful applicant will register for a full-time MPhil/PhD and receive a bursary of £15k per annum for up to three years (from which fees will be deducted, currently £3900 per annum).
Entry requirements: A minimum of an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in analytical science, biochemistry or chemistry. Due to funding restrictions the Studentship is open to Home/EU applicants only.
How to apply: please click the APPLY button below, to download a copy of our research degree application form. Please return it marked for the attention of Dr Louise Bright by email to researchoffice@southwales.ac.uk no later than the 31st July 2013.
Alternatively post to:
Dr Louise Bright
Research Office
The Lodge
University of South Wales
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL