RESEARCH EXPERTISE

 Research under the theme of energy storage and conversion is split in two key areas:

(1) synthesis and characterisation of functional materials

(2) design and testing of energy storage and conversion devices. We are synthesising novel nanomaterials (two-dimensional and three-dimensional) for their use in range of energy and environmental applications particularly in next generation energy storage and conversion devices to find sustainable solutions of real-world problems.

Current research involves designing high power/high energy storage devices for their use in flexible, implantable and wearable electronic devices.

The research group focuses on the development and optimisation of energy systems, with an emphasis on improving efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Key areas include power plant design, retrofitting for performance enhancement, and the optimisation of combined heat and power (CHP) systems. The group aims to improve energy efficiency by designing and optimising essential processes and equipment to reduce energy losses and maximise waste heat recovery.

Another unique area of research are Microalgae biorefineries; these are emerging as a pivotal technology in sustainable biofuel production. These systems utilize microalgae's capacity for wastewater treatment, effectively removing nutrients and contaminants while simultaneously capturing carbon dioxide emissions. Through various cultivation and extraction processes, microalgae can be converted into biodiesel and other biofuels, providing a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Additionally, the biomass generated can be valorised into high-value chemicals, enhancing economic viability. By optimizing resource recovery and minimizing waste, microalgae biorefineries represent a multifaceted solution for sustainable energy production and environmental remediation, contributing to carbon neutrality goals and circular economy.

Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources and the application of big data-driven optimisation algorithms are being explored as innovative approaches for creating sustainable energy systems. These technologies support the simulation and optimisation of energy systems.

Our expertise includes:

• Heat capture/recovery: Water, infrastructure
• Heat transfer and fluids
• Bio-energy
• Heat pumps 
• Rechargeable batteries
• Supercapacitors
• Nanoporous carbon
• Transition metal oxides
• Hydrogen storage materials
• Hydrogen fuel cells

Staff

Current PhD

PhD opportunities:

'Developing adhesion and wettability measurement and analysis of laser surface modification characteristics for battery applications tailored for Augmenting Net zero Transportation'

University of the West of Scotland (UWS) influences the economic, social and cultural development of the west of Scotland and beyond. We provide career-relevant, inclusive higher education alongside internationally recognised research. We are seeking to attract a PhD candidate of outstanding ability and commitment to join our vibrant and growing programme of internationally excellent research. 

Extending battery life through tactical replacement or repair of battery cells and / or modules provides a manifold of benefits and offers new market opportunities for the transportation sector. Presently, battery designs and those sub-assembly electrical connections between cells and busbars are created using fusion or solid-state bonded processes producing non-reversible joints; i.e., separation of joints is a destructive activity if they are to be replaced, repaired or recycled. Mechanical methods have been investigated and used for early designs, but these are vulnerable to ‘efficiency drop-off’ triggered by ‘resistance ageing’, resulting from thermal and corrosive activities between the connection interfaces and loosening of connections caused by random vibrations. Through an EPSRC funded project - SUstainable Reversal oF metallic Adhesive Connections Tailored for Augmenting Net zero Transportation (SURFACTANT) - the University of Sheffield, Heriot-Watt University and the University of the West of Scotland will develop a sustainable manufacturing process for battery applications, enabling assembly, non-destructive disassembly and reassembly between electrical connections to achieve full recovery of the cells and busbars.

This engineering PhD project is sponsored by SURFACTANT project partner University of the West of Scotland (UWS) and will deliver the expertise and means for the unique wettability and adhesion analysis. Specifically the project will provide measurement and analysis of laser modified surface characteristics to both enhance and retard wettability characteristics, informing optimisation of required laser output characteristics.

The project is highly interdisciplinary, providing the successful PhD student with an opportunity to work alongside other project partners and gain skills in laser modification of surfaces, surface analytical techniques and battery use in Net Zero Transportation applications.

UWS contribution to the SURFACTANT project will be part of UWS Institute of Thin Films, Sensors & Imaging (ITFSI), with ITFSI director Professor Des Gibson as UWS principal investigator and PhD project director of studies. Further details can be obtained direct from Professor Des Gibson at des.gibson@uws.ac.uk .

Applicant Criteria

Candidates should hold 1st or 2:1 degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry or other Relevant Discipline.

The successful candidate must also meet the following criteria: be a UK National (meeting residency requirements), or have settled status, or have pre-settled status (meeting residency requirements), or have indefinite leave to remain.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online through the University’s online application system via the following link: Admissions & Applications for Postgraduate Research Degrees | UWS

Application Deadline: 27th June 2025

Programme Start Date: 1st October 2025

This is a fully funded PhD Studentship and includes payment of tuition fees for 36 months at the home/UK rate and an annual maintenance stipend equivalent to UKRI minimum stipend rate (£20,780 pa from 01/10/2025).