University of Manchester FSE Bicentenary PhD Studentship 2026-2027

This PhD project will explore a new class of materials known as polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) as alternatives to conventional ionomers. PIMs have unique structures that create tiny, interconnected pores, making them extremely permeable to gases while still able to conduct protons. Early research in our group has already shown that variants of these materials, such as cardo-PIM, can improve durability and stability in fuel cell membranes. This project will take the next step by developing PIM-based ionomers specifically designed for the catalyst layer, with the goal of improving efficiency, durability, and reducing platinum usage.

As a PhD student on this project, you will design and synthesize the new materials tailoring their structure, integrate these material within the HT-PEMFC evaluating their electrochemical performance and use advanced characterization techniques to understand the transport mechanisms withing the interfaces. 

The outcomes of this project could have a major impact on the development of sustainable energy technologies. 

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineJanuary 31, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Manchester
• City to studyManchester
• School to studyUniversity of Manchester
• Course to studyChemical Engineering
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

Funding for this project covers tuition fees, UKRI minimum annual stipend (currently £20,780/annum) and up to a £5k/annum research training support grant for the full duration of the 4-year programme. 

Requirements

• Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline such as Chemical Engineering or Chemistry. 
• The expertise in electrochemistry and polymer chemistry is desired.

Check also:
Wits-Edinburgh Programme in Sustainable African Futures by Mastercard Foundation 2026-2027
Department of Aeronautics MSc Scholarship at Imperial College London 2026

Application Deadline

January 31, 2026

How To Apply

Are you qualified and interested in this opportunity? Kindly go to University of Manchester on www.findaphd.com to apply

The University of Manchester strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. 

How to apply: To be considered for this project you’ll need complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for FSE Bicentenary PhD. If you don’t already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your proposed supervisor/s, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You also need to provide a Personal Statement describing the motivation to apply to the project and your CV. Your application cannot be processed without all of the required documents, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines where applications are incomplete. 

For more details, visit University of Manchester Scholarship webpage