Coventry University and Stellenbosch University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems 2027

This project is offered as a Stellenbosch University-Coventry University Cotutelle PhD, providing a unique international research environment that combines expertise in sustainable mining, resource recovery, electrochemical engineering, and green hydrogen technologies. The successful candidate will benefit from joint supervision, access to world-class research facilities at both institutions, and opportunities to develop an international research profile through collaborative activities and knowledge exchange.

The student will be based primarily within the Department of Chemical Engineering at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, working under the supervision of Professor Prathieka Naidoo, Chair in Green Hydrogen Integration and Transition. The research will focus on developing innovative strategies for the remediation and valorisation of acid mine drainage (AMD), one of the most significant environmental challenges associated with mining activities worldwide. AMD contains elevated concentrations of dissolved metals, sulphates, and other contaminants, but also represents an underutilised source of valuable resources.

The project will investigate approaches for the selective recovery of critical metals from AMD through precipitation and treatment processes, generating a treated low-quality water stream suitable for subsequent electrochemical utilisation. Attention will be given to recovering strategically important metals and improving the overall sustainability and economic viability of AMD treatment systems. Building upon this resource recovery platform, the project will explore the use of reclaimed low-quality water as a feedstock for hydrogen production using robust electrochemical systems capable of operating under non-ideal water quality conditions. The research will examine how residual contaminants may be utilised within alternative anodic oxidation pathways, enabling simultaneous pollutant remediation and clean hydrogen generation. This integrated approach aims to reduce treatment costs, improve resource efficiency, and contribute to the development of circular economy solutions for the mining sector.

The placement will provide valuable training in electrochemical testing, reactor design and hydrogen system operation, while facilitating the transfer of flow-cell electrolysis expertise between Coventry University and Stellenbosch University. The student will also engage with researchers working across hydrogen production, electrochemical engineering, and sustainable energy systems, strengthening international collaboration and supporting the development of future joint research initiatives.

Overall, the project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of environmental remediation, critical materials recovery, and green hydrogen production, while developing the technical, professional, and international skills required for a successful research career.

This PhD is a cotutelle PhD between Coventry University (UK) and Stellenbosch University (South Africa). The successful candidate will primarily be based in Stellenbosch, but will be required to undertake a significant period of study in Coventry as a requirement of the PhD.

• Table of Content
• About Coventry University
• Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship
• Aim and Benefits of Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship
• Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship Courses
• Requirements for Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship Qualification
• Interview date, Process and Venue for Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship

Aim and Benefits of Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship

• Tuition fees and bursary.
• Comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills.
• All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.

Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship Courses

• Electrochemical Systems

Requirements for Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship Qualification

• A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.

PLUS

• A master's degree in a relevant subject area.The master's must have been attained with minimum overall marks at merit level (60%)*. In addition, the dissertation or equivalent element in the master's must also have been attained with a minimum mark of merit level (60%).
• The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years.
• A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS academic overall minimum score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component).

Additional requirements

• This studentship is suitable for candidates with a background in
  • Chemical Engineering,
  • Mechanical Engineering,
  • Materials Science,
  • Electrochemistry,
  • Energy Systems, or
  • a related discipline.
• Experience in
  • acid mine drainage treatment,
  • water remediation,
  • electrolysers,
  • electrochemical testing,
  • electrocatalysis, or
  • hydrogen technologies is desirable but training will be given.
• Applicants should be highly motivated, possess strong analytical skills, and have an interest in sustainable energy, resource recovery, and environmental technologies.

Interview date, Process and Venue for Coventry University PhD Studentship in Advanced Electrochemical Systems PhD Scholarship

• Interview date: Will be confirmed to shortlisted candidates
• Start date: January 2027

Check also:
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027
Global Korea Scholarship 2027

Application Deadline

How to Apply

To find out more about the project, please contact Associate Professor Sumit Roy.

All applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, plus a 2000-word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.

Apply to Coventry University

For more details, visit Coventry University Scholarship webpage