PhD Studentship in Waste Upcycling: The University of Surrey is offering a fully funded PhD studentship in the field of sustainable biorefinery systems, focusing on the upcycling of olive mill waste into value-added products. This research initiative is part of the EU Horizon’s OLinWASTE project, aimed at developing innovative solutions for zero-emission biorefineries.
PhD Studentship in Sustainable Olive Mill Waste Upcycling
Designation:
PhD Studentship in Digital Twin Technology for Sustainable Olive Mill Waste Upcycling
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Biorefinery systems, Digital Twins, Waste Upcycling |
| Location | University of Surrey, UK |
| Eligibility/Qualification | Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Computer Science, or related disciplines |
| Funding Source | EU Horizon |
| Funding Amount | Tuition fees + tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum |
| Duration | 36 months |
| Start Date | 01 January 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 06 October 2025 |
Description:
The OLinWASTE project is a €4 million EU initiative involving ten partners from six European countries. Its goal is to develop a smart zero-emission biorefinery for converting olive mill waste into high-value products, including plant bioimmunostimulants, biopesticides, biofertilisers, bio-based plastics, and bioenergy. Key objectives include greenhouse gas reduction, optimising energy costs, recovering thermal energy, and reducing odors associated with waste. The University of Surrey is leading the development of a system digital twin (SDT) to enhance sustainability and efficiency in the biorefineries.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their applications via the PhD Chemical and Process Engineering Research programme page. In lieu of a research proposal, please upload a document that includes the following:
- Title of the project you are applying for: “Digital Twin for Sustainable Olive Mill Waste Upcycling”
- The name of the relevant supervisor: Dr. Lei Xing
Last Date to Apply:
Applications must be submitted by 06 October 2025.
For further inquiries, please contact:
- Dr. Lei Xing
Telephone: +44 (0)1483 686576
E-mail: l.xing@surrey.ac.uk
For more information on studentship opportunities at the University of Surrey, visit the studentship FAQs page.
