Fully Funded PhD Studentship: CDT in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF)

About the Position

A 4-year fully funded EPSRC CDT focusing on industrial decarbonisation and the green industrial revolution, led by Heriot-Watt University.

Opportunity	Fully Funded PhD Studentship: CDT in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF)
Host	Heriot-Watt University
Location	Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Study Level	PhD
Funding	Fully Funded
Stipend	Fully Funded (EPSRC)
Application Deadline	Rolling
Apply	Official application page ↗

Basic Information

• Host Institution: Heriot-Watt University (lead)
• Study Level: PhD
• Duration: 4 years
• Start Date: October 2026
• Funding Type: Fully Funded (EPSRC)
• Location: Edinburgh
• Official Website: https://greenindustrialfutures.site.hw.ac.uk/

Project Overview & Significance

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF), led by Heriot-Watt University, is a transformative 4-year PhD programme dedicated to solving the global climate crisis through industrial decarbonisation. As the world transitions towards net-zero emissions, heavy industry faces immense pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. This CDT focuses on the interdisciplinary, whole-systems research required to achieve this green industrial revolution. It brings together engineering, chemistry, and environmental science to develop new technologies and processes that can decarbonise energy-intensive sectors, such as chemicals, materials, and manufacturing. The research aims to provide the scientific and engineering foundations for a sustainable, low-carbon industrial economy.

Research Themes & Objectives

The CDT-GIF encompasses a wide range of research themes, including carbon capture and storage (CCS), hydrogen as a clean fuel, electrification of industrial processes, and circular economy models. The programme emphasises a 'whole-systems' approach, meaning it considers not just the technical feasibility of new technologies, but also their economic, environmental, and social implications. The objective is to train doctoral researchers who can think across disciplines to design and implement industrial systems that are both sustainable and economically viable. Projects often involve close collaboration with industry partners, ensuring the research is directly applicable to real-world decarbonisation challenges.

Training & Development

Students in the CDT-GIF benefit from a structured 4-year programme that includes a foundational first year of taught courses, covering core concepts in industrial decarbonisation and research methods. The cohort-based model fosters a collaborative environment. Training includes access to state-of-the-art laboratories, industry placements, and opportunities to present at international conferences. Graduates emerge with a unique skill set that bridges engineering and sustainability, making them highly sought after by the energy sector, manufacturing industries, and government policy bodies.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must hold a first-class or upper second-class honours degree in engineering, chemistry, physics, or a related discipline. A Master's degree is desirable. The programme is fully funded by EPSRC, with specific eligibility rules regarding nationality and residency. Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and decarbonisation.

Important Notes

• Application deadline: Rolling - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
• Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
• Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.

About Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University is a public university with campuses in Scotland, Dubai and Malaysia. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral education in fields including engineering, computing, physical sciences, business and design. Its teaching and research emphasise practical applications, connecting expertise with industry and challenges in technology, sustainability and the wider economy.

Official website: https://www.hw.ac.uk/

How to Apply & Official Contacts

Cohort 3 project details are currently available for recruitment. Prospective applicants should visit the official CDT-GIF website for specific project details and application instructions. General postgraduate enquiries can be sent to study@hw.ac.uk.

2026/27 UKRI reference rate: the minimum UKRI doctoral stipend is £21,805 per year, tax-free (London institutions +£2,000), effective 1 October 2026.

Application guides

• How to Email a PhD Supervisor: 7 Templates and Practical Tips
• How to Read a PhD Job Advert: Funding, Eligibility and Application Steps
• UK Student Visa Application: CAS, Documents and Financial Evidence

Official Link

https://greenindustrialfutures.site.hw.ac.uk/