School of Natural Sciences PhD Scholarships Sustainable recovery and remediation of metals using zero-carbon

The recovery and/or remediation of metal ions from the environment is essential for both retaining sovereign resources (such as battery components) and to mitigate environmental impact from activities such as nuclear waste processing or precious metal and electronic waste (rare earths) recovery. Increasing anthropogenic activity has led to elevated concentrations of toxic and economically valuable metals in industrial effluents, mine drainage, and even natural water bodies, posing risks to ecosystem health and human well-being.

The practises currently used to extract these resources are unsustainable. For example, gold mining in many countries still involves the use of toxic cyanide, which children are exposed too;
Tools for the recovery of lithium, rare earths and uranium (electronic, battery and mining wastes) are urgently needed.

This exciting, interdisciplinary PhD project will take inspiration from extremophile organisms (such as those that live in ocean hot vents, or sub-zero mountain ranges) to develop new biomaterials for the selective extraction, purification and valorisation of both precious metals, but also to recover toxic metal waste, such as that from the nuclear industry. We will both improve the recovery and replace the currently unsustainable solid-phase extraction systems, making broad impact.

The successful candidate will work between the Gibson () and Natrajan () groups, and benefit from truly world-class facilities between the Department of Chemistry and the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology.

This project is expected to start in September 2027.

Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.

We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.

The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in Chemistry OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Chemistry . Previous research experience in analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry or polymer chemistry is desirable.

This project will remain open until filled.

Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.