Measuring add-on-costs from direct liquefaction of archetypal biomass (MADLAB)
This exciting opportunity is based within the Advanced Materials research group in the Faculty of Engineering to conduct cutting edge research into upgrading novel biomass feedstocks with industrial collaboration with BP.
Vision
We are seeking a PhD student who is motivated to develop practical rapid analysis tools for BPs biomass liquefaction processes. We are looking for candidates with an interest in biomass and sustainable low carbon technologies and want to problem solve on real industrial systems by leveraging in depth material characterisation knowledge. This project is ideal for students looking for a balance of academic and industrial experience, whilst increasing fundamental knowledge of biomass materials and making a difference on real systems. Together we will make technological advances in rapid characterisation techniques for biomass liquefaction processes and help improve the cost effectiveness of these systems.
Motivation
Imagine transforming the way industry evaluates biomass for sustainable energy. Right now, there’s no fast, reliable method to predict how novel feedstocks split into valuable products like biochar, bioliquids, and gases. This PhD gives you the chance to change that and help BP utilise lower cost more sustainable feedstocks in their biomass liquefaction processes. You’ll develop novel rapid, reliable test methods to understand the liquid yield potential of a substrate which would be transformative for industry. Beyond liquids you’ll uncover how key elements like nitrogen, chlorine, sulphur, and alkali metals behave shaping cleaner, more efficient processes. Your work will set new standards for feedstock characterisation and help industry unlock the full potential of biomass. This PhD will address these gaps developing innovative methodologies to enable accurate, rapid characterisation of biomass feedstocks for advanced bioenergy applications.
Aim
The project will leverage historic work which considered both the direct liquefaction of solid fuels and the partitioning of contaminants between the char and volatile phase. Ideally the project would consider both hydrothermal liquefaction and fast pyrolysis. You will have the opportunity to work on the state-of-the-art biomass characterisation and processing facilities at the University of Nottingham, whilst developing novel techniques and systems. You will work with the University of Nottingham and BP to enable them to rapidly screen feedstocks which might enable a lower risk, lower cost participation strategy enabling BP to either source lower-cost feedstocks or rapidly rule out such lower-cost feedstocks enabling faster purchases of more expensive and better quality residues.
Candidate requirements
We are looking for a curious, innovative, and self-motivated researcher with strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary, industry-focused environment.
The ideal candidate will have knowledge of biomass chemistry, thermochemical conversion processes, and analytical techniques for feedstock characterisation.
1st or a 2:1 in a chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials engineering, chemistry, or physics.
Eligibility and funding
This studentship is open to UK/home candidates only.
Funding will cover home fees and a stipend of £23,805 per annum.
PhD start date: October 2026
How to apply
Application deadline: 16 March 2026
To apply, please email your CV and cover letter to Professor Ed Lester at edward.lester@nottingham.ac.uk
The University of Nottingham actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We - the Faculty of Engineering - provide a thriving working environment for all our postgraduate researchers (PGRs) creating a strong sense of community across research disciplines. We understand that research culture is important to our PGRs so we work closely with our Postgraduate Engineering Society and PGR research group representatives to support and enhance the postgraduate research environment.
As a PGR at the University of Nottingham you will benefit from training through our Researcher Academy’s training programme. Based within the Faculty of Engineering you will have additional access to courses developed specifically for our engineering and architecture PGRs including sessions on how to write a paper, communicating your research, and research integrity.
We offer dedicated postgraduate study spaces, have outstanding research facilities and work in partnership with leading industrial partners.