At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on AI-guided metal recovery from spent lithium batteries.
- Company: Join a leading academic team at the University of Leeds with industry collaboration.
- Benefits: Receive a competitive tax-free maintenance grant and full tuition fees for 3.5 years.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable technology and contribute to environmental solutions.
- Qualifications: First or Upper Second Class UK Bachelor (Honours) in relevant fields required.
The predicted salary is between 19237 - 19237 £ per year.
Eligibility: UK Applicants only
Funding: A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship, in partnership with GoldenKeys Hi-tech Ltd, offering the award of fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant of £19,237 for 3.5 years.
Lead Supervisor’s full name & email address: Professor Bao Nguyen – b.nguyen@leeds.ac.uk
Co-supervisor name(s): Professor Patrick McGowan – p.c.mcgowan@leeds.ac.uk
Project summary: Ligand/material discovery has been carried out through laborious trial-and-error approaches. Recent advances in high throughput computational chemistry and AI/Machine Learning provided us with a more efficient, in silico approach to develop new ligands for functional materials and catalysis. We aim to extend the Big Data/high throughput DFT methodology in Nguyen group to carry out ligand discovery in silico for Li, Mn, Co and Ni recovery from spent lithium batteries. This will take advantage of experience in Nguyen group on using AI and Machine Learning for ligand discovery in catalysis.
The student will analyse literature ligands for Li, Mn, Co and Ni using cheminformatics and data science techniques to identify the required features of successful ligands (i.e. high binding strength). These insights will inform an exhaustive search of the Cambridge Structural Database (CDS, 1.5M structures) for potential ligands and their performance will be evaluated with high throughput DFT calculations. The workflow will be automated with Python code developed in Nguyen group, in collaboration with DiLabio group at University of British Columbia, which will significantly speed up our workflow to minutes per ligands. The most successful ligands identified in silico will be prepared and validated experimentally. Further refinement of the lead ligands through rational design, computational evaluation, and experimental validation will be carried out. The successful and novel ligands will be developed into new commercial products for recovering these critical metals from spent lithium batteries.
References: Sci. Technol. 2023, 13, 2407-2420; ChemCatChem 2024, e202301475.
Please state your entry requirements plus any necessary or desired background: First or Upper Second Class UK Bachelor (Honours) or equivalent
Subject Area: Environmental Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Synthetic Chemistry
PhD Studentship: AI-Guided Metal Recovery From Spent Lithium Batteries in Leeds employer: University of Leeds
As a leading institution in environmental chemistry and innovative research, we offer PhD students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge projects that contribute to sustainable practices in metal recovery. Our collaborative work culture fosters creativity and growth, providing students with access to expert supervision and a supportive environment that encourages professional development. Located at the University of Leeds, you will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant academic community dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: AI-Guided Metal Recovery From Spent Lithium Batteries in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your professors, industry contacts, or even fellow students. Let them know you're on the hunt for a PhD studentship in AI and metal recovery. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your research game on! Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in AI and cheminformatics related to metal recovery. This will not only boost your confidence but also give you some solid talking points during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Set up mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your passion for environmental chemistry and how your skills align with the project goals. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you stand out. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to work on cutting-edge research with us!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: AI-Guided Metal Recovery From Spent Lithium Batteries in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the project. We want to see your passion for AI and metal recovery, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant coursework or projects!
Showcase Your Research Skills:Since this is a PhD studentship, we’re keen to see your research capabilities. Include any previous research experience, especially in environmental chemistry or related fields, and mention specific techniques or methodologies you’ve used.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure to proofread for any typos or grammatical errors.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Leeds
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest advancements in AI and machine learning, especially as they relate to ligand discovery and metal recovery. Brush up on relevant literature and be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the project’s goals.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for environmental chemistry and the importance of sustainable practices in battery recycling. Share any personal projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to this field, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready for your interviewers about the project, the team dynamics, or future research directions. This shows that you’re genuinely interested and engaged, plus it gives you a chance to assess if this is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and get comfortable discussing your research experience. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when explaining complex concepts related to cheminformatics and data science techniques.
