Coventry University and Stellenbosch University offer a funded Cotutelle PhD starting January 2027, researching acid mine drainage, critical metal recovery and green hydrogen.
The Coventry University PhD Studentship 2027 offers an international doctoral research opportunity focused on acid mine drainage (AMD), critical metal recovery, electrochemical systems and green hydrogen production.
The project is a Cotutelle PhD between Coventry University in the UK and Stellenbosch University in South Africa, with the successful candidate primarily based in Stellenbosch and undertaking a significant period of study in Coventry.
Applications close on 28 September 2026, with the programme scheduled to start in January 2027.
Coventry University PhD Studentship 2027: Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Universities | Coventry University & Stellenbosch University |
| Programme | Cotutelle PhD |
| Research area | Acid mine drainage, resource recovery and green hydrogen |
| Study mode | Full-time |
| Duration | 3–3.5 years |
| Primary location | Stellenbosch, South Africa |
| International study | Significant period in Coventry, UK |
| Eligible applicants | UK and international graduates, including EU |
| Funding | Tuition fees and bursary |
| Start date | January 2027 |
| Application deadline | 28 September 2026 |
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, minimum 6.0 in each component |
What Does the PhD Project Involve?
The research aims to develop an integrated approach to acid mine drainage remediation and resource recovery.
The project will investigate the recovery of valuable and critical metals, including:
- Copper
- Cobalt
- Nickel
- Manganese
- Iron compounds
The research will then investigate the use of treated AMD water as a feedstock for hydrogen production through advanced electrochemical systems.
The project connects environmental remediation with critical materials recovery and low-carbon hydrogen production, with the broader aim of supporting sustainable mining and circular economy approaches.
Research Training and Facilities
The successful candidate will be primarily based within the Department of Chemical Engineering at Stellenbosch University under the supervision of Professor Prathieka Naidoo.
The project provides exposure to:
- Electrochemical testing.
- Reactor design.
- Hydrogen system operation.
- Resource recovery technologies.
- Electrochemical engineering.
- Sustainable energy systems.
- Flow-cell electrolysis.
- Critical materials recovery.
The student will also have access to research facilities at both Coventry University and Stellenbosch University and opportunities for international research collaboration.
Who Can Apply?
The studentship is open to UK and international graduates, including EU applicants, who meet the required academic and language requirements.
Applicants should have a background in areas such as:
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Systems
- Related disciplines
Previous experience in acid mine drainage treatment, water remediation, electrolysers, electrochemical testing, electrocatalysis or hydrogen technologies is desirable, although training will be provided.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A minimum 2:1 first degree in a relevant subject.
- At least 60% in the project element or equivalent.
- A minimum 60% overall module average.
- A relevant Master’s degree.
- A Master’s degree with at least 60% overall at merit level.
- At least 60% in the Master’s dissertation or equivalent.
- The potential to undertake innovative research and complete the PhD within 3.5 years.
Applicants must also demonstrate strong analytical skills, motivation and an interest in sustainable energy, resource recovery and environmental technologies.
English Language Requirements
The minimum English language requirement is:
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component.
Funding and Benefits
The studentship provides tuition fees and a bursary.
The successful candidate will also receive research training covering technical, personal and professional development.
Coventry University states that PhD researchers are part of its Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which provides training and career development support.
The supplied source does not state the exact value of the bursary.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit a complete application with supporting documentation.
The application requires:
- Full supporting documentation.
- A covering letter.
- A 2,000-word supporting statement explaining how the applicant’s expertise and interests relate to the research project.
Applicants are also advised to contact Associate Professor Sumit Roy for further information about the project.
Coventry University — PhD Studentship and Application Information
Application Deadline
The application deadline is:
28 September 2026
The programme is scheduled to begin in January 2027.
Shortlisted applicants will receive details of the interview date.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
This studentship combines doctoral research at Stellenbosch University and Coventry University with research into acid mine drainage remediation, critical materials recovery and hydrogen production.
The funding includes tuition fees and a bursary, while the source does not specify the exact bursary amount. Applicants should also be prepared for study periods in both South Africa and the UK.
FAQs
What is the Coventry University PhD studentship about?
It is a Cotutelle PhD researching acid mine drainage remediation, critical metal recovery and hydrogen production using advanced electrochemical systems.
Which universities are involved?
The project is jointly offered by Coventry University in the UK and Stellenbosch University in South Africa.
Where will the student be based?
The successful candidate will be primarily based at Stellenbosch University, with a significant period of study required at Coventry University.
How long is the PhD?
The full-time PhD is expected to last between three and three and a half years.
Is the PhD funded?
Yes. The source states that the studentship provides tuition fees and a bursary.
How much is the bursary?
The supplied information does not specify the bursary amount.
What degree do I need?
Applicants need a relevant first degree meeting the stated 2:1 and 60% requirements, as well as a relevant Master’s degree with the required merit-level marks.
Is previous hydrogen or electrochemical experience required?
Such experience is desirable, but the source states that training will be provided.
What IELTS score is required?
Applicants need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component.
When does the PhD start?
The programme starts in January 2027.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 28 September 2026.
Official Application
Coventry University — Funded PhD Studentship 2027
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