Loughborough University invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship in sustainable hydrogen production through membrane-free alkaline electrolysis. The project is part of the EPSRC-funded EnerHy Centre for Doctoral Training, in partnership with CPH2 Limited.
Important Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PhD Studentship: Enhancing Membrane-Free Alkaline Electrolysis for Sustainable Hydrogen Production |
| Organization/Publisher | Loughborough University |
| Work Location | Loughborough, United Kingdom |
| Research Field | Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering |
| Funding Info | Fully Funded (EPSRC & CPH2 Limited) |
| Application Deadline | November 30, 2025 |
| Posted Date | No information |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Researcher Profile | PhD Student / Early-Stage Researcher |
| Apply Button | Apply Online |
| Required Qualification | Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or related Engineering field |
| Required Experience | Research or academic experience in hydrogen energy, electrochemistry, or materials science (desirable) |
| Salary Details | £20,780 per annum (tax-free stipend) + tuition fees (UK rate) |
Overview
A fully funded 4-year PhD studentship is available at Loughborough University, commencing January or October 2026, as part of the Engineering Hydrogen NetZero (EnerHy) Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT). This EPSRC-funded initiative focuses on advancing green hydrogen technologies and wind energy systems.
The project, in collaboration with CPH2 Limited, explores membrane-free alkaline electrolysis as a pathway toward sustainable and cost-effective hydrogen production.
About the Project
Hydrogen plays a crucial role in achieving Net Zero emissions. However, current hydrogen production technologies face efficiency and stability challenges. This PhD aims to address these limitations by:
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Developing novel electrode materials and geometries to reduce overvoltage.
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Designing innovative cell and stack configurations to minimize energy consumption per kilogram of hydrogen produced.
Your research will involve the synthesis and characterization of electrode materials, assessment of their electrocatalytic performance, and analysis of bubble dynamics in membrane-free electrolysers. You will also gain hands-on industrial experience through a placement at CPH2’s R&D facility, guided by Dr. Nicholas Baynes.
About Loughborough University
Loughborough University is recognized globally for its excellence in engineering research—94% of its research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). The university provides exceptional research infrastructure, including electrochemical, materials, and gas analysis facilities.
Supervision
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Primary Supervisor: Dr. Sonya Calnan
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Industry Partner: CPH2 Limited (Hydrogen Technology R&D)
Funding and Eligibility
This studentship covers:
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Full tuition fees (UK rate)
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Annual tax-free stipend of £20,780 for 4 years
Note: Due to UKRI funding rules, this position is open only to candidates eligible for UK fees.
Application Procedure
To apply, submit an online application through the Loughborough University Postgraduate Portal. Under Campus, select Loughborough, and choose the program CDT Engineering Hydrogen Net Zero Mechanical PhD.
Please include the project reference LU-EnerHy 2025-6/10 in your application.
Required Documents:
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Personal statement outlining motivation and interest in hydrogen research
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Updated CV
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Two referees (including one academic referee from your highest degree qualification)
Selection Criteria:
Applications will be assessed based on:
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Academic qualifications and relevance
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Research or professional experience
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Motivation and interest in the project topic
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References and interview performance
Deadline: November 30, 2025
Start Dates: January 2026 or October 2026
Contact:
📧 s.calnan@lboro.ac.uk
📞 +44 1509 225837
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