PhD Student in Materials Chemistry and Spectroscopy for CO2 Capture
Join an international PhD project combining X-ray Raman scattering and computational modeling to advance carbon capture technologies.
Best for:Best for master's graduates in chemistry or physics with a strong interest in spectroscopy, synchrotron techniques, and environmental sustainability.
Overview
This funded three-year PhD position is a collaborative initiative hosted at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France, with academic enrollment at the University of Bath in the United Kingdom and secondments at Diamond Light Source. The successful candidate will investigate electronic interactions, binding mechanisms, and degradation pathways of amine-based materials for industrial carbon capture using advanced spectroscopy and computational methods. The role involves conducting cutting-edge experiments at synchrotron beamlines, analyzing complex spectroscopic datasets, and developing optimized materials to combat climate change. Candidates are expected to bring strong attention to detail, a collaborative mindset, and an appropriate background in chemistry, physics, or materials science.
What you'll do
- Perform X-ray Raman scattering and optical Raman spectroscopy measurements at synchrotron beamlines
- Conduct computational electronic structure calculations to model carbon dioxide and amine interactions
- Synthesize and test novel amine-based materials designed for large-scale industrial carbon capture
- Participate in planned research secondments at the University of Bath and Diamond Light Source
- Analyze complex experimental datasets to identify degradation pathways and binding mechanisms
- Collaborate with an international multidisciplinary team of scientists across partner institutions
- Prepare scientific findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at conferences
Requirements
Degree required: MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, or related disciplines
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; upper-intermediate B2 level or meeting the University of Bath English language entry requirements
Instruction: English
- Manual skills and rigorous attention to detail in an experimental laboratory environment
- Background in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a closely related discipline
- Demonstrated ability to perform rigorous data analysis and scientific interpretation
- Willingness to travel for international secondments and collaborative experiments
- Compliance with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule: candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the application deadline
- Candidates must not already be working towards or in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment
- Candidates must satisfy all conditions for enrolment in a doctoral programme at the University of Bath
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-09-30
Interested applicants should prepare all required documentation and submit their application through the designated institutional portal before the deadline. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and subsequently asked to formally apply for the relevant PhD programme at the University of Bath.
- CV
- Proof of English proficiency
- Diploma or university certificate of completed degree
- Cover letter
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.