Applications are invited for a fully-funded studentship developing life cycle assessment approaches to evaluate the environmental and economic performance of renewable fuel and chemicals production from biomass resources. The selected candidate will be expected to take a multi-disciplinary, whole-system approach considering among other factors:

• Impacts of biomass resource production and utilisation
• Technology development supporting thermochemical and biochemical conversion routes
• Co-production of energy, materials and chemicals in a biorefinery context

Specific activities and case studies included within the PhD will be shaped by the applicant’s background and interests.

You will join a growing research group within the Division of Energy & Sustainability at Nottingham (University Park campus). Collaboration with research groups, organisations both internal and external to the University (for example, the Midlands Energy Graduate School), and relevant industrial partners will be encouraged and supported.

Applicants should have a background in mechanical or chemical engineering, or a related discipline, and have or expect to graduate with a first or upper second MEng, a distinction at MSc level, or equivalent. Familiarity with conventional/renewable energy systems and life cycle analysis will be considered an asset.

The studentship will cover PhD tuition fees (at the UK/EU rate) and a tax free stipend for three years (£13,863 for the 2014-15 academic year). Due to funding restrictions this studentship is only available to UK and EU citizens.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Jon McKechnie (jon.mckechnie<στο>nottingham.ac.uk).

Applications with a CV, a brief statement of your research interests, and the names and email addresses of two referees should be sent to Dr Jon McKechnie, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Nottingham, University Park, NG7 2RD. Email:jon.mckechnie<στο>nottingham.ac.uk.

Please quote ref: ENG828         Closing date: 6 April 2015