have enormous potential to reach higher practical energy densities, while also replacing critical cathode materials with inexpensive and abundant S.
In our group, we have developed lignin-derived electrospun carbon fibres (CFs) that demonstrate promising behaviour as free-standing S cathode and Li anode supports, allowing gains in energy density by dispensing with inactive components including conductive carbon, binder and current collector. However, their mechanical properties are far below even the automotive industry's minimum standards; these properties must be improved for lignin-based structural battery components to be realised.
This PhD studentship will focus on optimising the mechanical and electrochemical properties of lignin-derived CFs. You will study the effect of precursor and processing methods on material structure and performance, learning and developing techniques for synthesis and characterisation, electrochemical and mechanical testing. Such techniques include: electrospinning, chemical vapour deposition, electron microscopies, spectroscopies, galvanostatic cycling and tensile testing. The project will progress in parallel to the development of structural electrolytes, with the overarching aim of combining the two for electrochemical and mechanical testing of the composites.
This multidisciplinary project spans materials chemistry, composite engineering and electrochemistry, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in materials and battery development and to make a significant impact on the future of sustainable energy storage. You will be part of a large and diverse research team in sustainable energy technologies in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London under the supervision of Dr. Heather Au.
This scholarship is open to all applicants regardless of their fee status. It covers both tuition fees and a tax-free contribution to maintenance costs of £25,000 per annum for 42 months.
The Department of Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London offers an advanced 3-4-year research degree that provides in-depth specialist training and knowledge in a topical area pertaining to Chemical Engineering and related Engineering and Science disciplines. The Department has state-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities and is the home of the Automated high-throughput platform suite, the Sargent Centre for Process Systems Engineering and the Sustainable Futures Lab.
The Department holds a Silver Athena Swan award for good practice in supporting academic women and gender equality renewed in 2024. This award recognises the good practices already in place for supporting women at all stages as well as our commitment to removing barriers to equal progress and achievement.
Deadline:
- 01 November 2026 for the first selection round
- 11 January 2027 for the second selection round
- 01 March 2027 for the third selection round (subject to availability of scholarships)
In order to be considered for the Chemical Engineering PhD Scholarships, you will need to submit your PhD application for admission through the online admissions system. Full details on the application and selection process can be found on our webpages.
We encourage all interested applicants to contact Dr Heather Au (h.au13@imperial.ac.uk) before making an application.
