PhD Studentship - A Holistic Approach to the Analysis of Fuel Deposits and Precursors using Hyphenated High Resolution Mass spectrometric Techniques (1339021EB)

Supervisory Team:    G J Langley, J M Herniman, Jim Barker (Innospec)

Project description

Emissions from internal combustion engines (ICE) continue to have a major impact regarding climate change and health issues worldwide. The decarbonisation and electrification of such powertrains continues apace but many estimates that in 2040, internal combustion (IC) will still be the most widely used engine technology in light passenger vehicles, and will feature heavily in off-road, heavy-duty and marine applications. Therefore, it is imperative that long-term, efficient, operation of IC engine components is ensured. Hence there continues to be research driven focus on improving all aspects of the IC engine to mitigate emissions. This study will employ a wide range of hyphenated high-resolution mass spectral techniques to characterise the precursors and deposits that have had a detrimental effect on one of the most widespread and growing modern powertrains, the gasoline direct injection engine (GDI). Such knowledge will be used to inform mitigation strategies that will lead to reduce emissions and improved fuel economy.

By working with Innospec the student will have access to additional instrumentation not available at Southampton, will spend time with the industrial partner as defined during the project, and will assess the transferability of their findings with the research teams at Innospec.  The student will be expected to present posters and orals at national and international conferences.

This project is well-suited to those with strong skills and a keen interest in analytical chemistry, and its application to the petrochemical industry.  An interest in analytical and physical-organic chemistry is desirable.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Professor John Langley, Langley Research Group, Email: gjl@soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 2182.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 01 July 2021 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £15,609 tax-free per annum for up to 4 years. 

How To Apply

Applications should be made online. Select programme type (Research), 2021/22, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD  Chemistry (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor  John Langley 

Applications should include: 

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts to date

Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk 

Closing Date: 01 Jul 2021
Post Type: PhD Studentship (Funded)