Are you passionate about solving the world’s most urgent sustainability challenges?
We equip researchers with the expertise, knowledge, and industry connections to drive real-world change. Through cutting-edge research, hands-on technical training, and impactful outreach, we prepare the next generation of innovators tackling global sustainability challenges.
About Us
We train scientists and engineers to embrace a whole systems approach in the development and implementation of sustainable chemical technologies to solve important challenges such as replacement of fossil resources with sustainable alternatives, utilisation of CO₂, plastics pollution, valorisation of waste, reuse and recycle of molecules, materials and products, and elimination of waste from processes.
Our Focus
The CDT in Sustainable Chemical Technologies : A Systems Approach (CSCT) is an interdisciplinary research centre, including expertise from the Departments of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electronic & Electrical Engineering, Life Sciences, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, and the School of Management.
Our programme
The PhD Journey
Year 1
Build your interdisciplinary foundation
ResearchProject 1
ResearchProject 2
CoreModules
OptionalModules
Years 2–4
Develop your PhD research
High QualityPhD Research Project
Advanced TechnicalTraining
MultidisciplinaryAdvisory Team
Throughout the Programme
A range of activities run across all four years
Creative andentrepreneurial skills
Public and policyengagement
Internships, events,showcases & symposia
75% Research
PhD research in Sustainable Chemical Technologies aims to explore innovative solutions to complex environmental challenges. Students engage in cutting-edge projects, developing sustainable methods, molecules and materials to address issues such as waste reduction, renewable energy, and resource efficiency. The programme fosters creativity and collaboration, allowing students to make impactful contributions to both academic knowledge and practical applications in industry.
15% Technical Training
Students receive specialist training in key areas such as green chemistry, circular economy, artificial intelligence & machine learning and catalysis and sustainability, ensuring they are equipped with cutting-edge scientific methodologies. Training modules, developed in collaboration with industry and policy partners, include practical workshops, case studies, and technical courses that enable students to integrate sustainability into real-world applications.
10% Transferable Skills
Beyond technical expertise, we prepare students for leadership in industry, policy, and academia. Training in public and policy engagement, responsible research and innovation, and entrepreneurship equips graduates with communication, critical thinking, and business development skills. These workshops ensure that our researchers can translate their findings into impactful, real-world solutions.
Work with us
Partners
Partnerships are at the heart of the CDT in Sustainable Chemical Technologies. We work with a diverse network of industrial, academic and research organisations to connect scientific expertise with real-world challenges.
Through collaborative research, knowledge exchange and access to specialist facilities, our partners help shape innovative solutions, support the development of future researchers and accelerate progress towards a more sustainable future.
Graduates
Alumni Destinations
Our graduates pursue diverse career paths, leveraging the skills and expertise developed during their PhDs. A significant 57% transition into industry roles, contributing to innovation and applied research. Another 29% remain in academia, advancing knowledge through teaching and research. About 9% of our alumni excel in research management, driving strategic initiatives, while 5% embrace teaching roles, inspiring the next generation. These outcomes highlight the versatility of our graduates, equipped to address complex challenges across sectors.
Resilience to failure, communication with multiple people from different scientific backgrounds, being able to upskill and rapidly learn something. I think all of this is what I gained from the CSCT, and all of that helps me to do my day-to-day job
I had a great time at the CSCT and made some lifelong friends. We were constantly provided with the support to take us to a higher level. This could be by means of attending conferences and workshops related to your research, doing an internship in your preferred company and obtaining resources necessary for your knowledge growth.
The CSCT was much more than a PhD programme—it was a community that shaped who I am today. I made lifelong friends, learned to think beyond the boundaries of my own discipline, and was encouraged to explore outreach, entrepreneurship and new ideas with an open mind. Most importantly, I always felt supported and inspired to step outside my comfort zone. The experiences and people I met through the CSCT have stayed with me long after my PhD.
Where our alumni are now
Career destinations by sector
Based on career information for 168 of 177 alumni (95% data coverage).
View our brochure
This brochure provides an overview of the CDT using case studies of our research projects and students.
