PhD Position in Chemical Engineering
Materials and Process Development for Carbon Capture
Starting: May or September 2027
The Catalytic Plasma Process Engineering (CPPE) Laboratory in the Department of Chemical Engineering at McGill University seeks a highly motivated PhD student to join an exciting research project focused on developing next-generation carbon capture technologies.
The transportation industry faces increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining operational flexibility. This project aims to develop advanced adsorbent materials, catalytic systems, and integrated process solutions for efficient onboard CO₂ capture under realistic operating conditions. The successful candidate will contribute to both fundamental and applied research with the potential to accelerate the decarbonization of heavy-duty transportation.
Research Areas
The successful candidate will contribute to research activities including:
- Development and characterization of advanced adsorbent and catalytic materials;
- CO₂ capture, adsorption, regeneration, and process performance studies;
- Design, construction, and operation of laboratory-scale experimental systems;
- Process engineering, modelling, and optimization;
- Application of machine learning and data-driven approaches for adsorbent development and process optimization;
- Collaboration with industrial and academic partners.
Qualifications
- B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Chemical Engineering;
- An excellent academic record and eligibility for competitive graduate scholarships;
- Strong interest in laboratory-based experimental research;
- Demonstrated interest in catalysis, CO₂ capture, sustainability, materials development, and process engineering;
- Excellent written and oral communication skills;
- Strong skills in scientific data analysis and presentation;
- A proactive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to research excellence;
- A strong safety mindset and commitment to responsible research conduct.
In addition, candidates should be capable of preparing publication-quality figures, graphical representations of experimental results, and process-performance visualizations. The ability to communicate technical results clearly through scientific publications, reports, and presentations is essential.
Above all, we seek highly motivated individuals who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, creativity, scientific intuition, critical thinking, independence, sound engineering judgement, and a strong willingness to learn. Successful candidates should be able to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment while consistently striving for excellence.
Preferred Assets
Preference will be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Machine learning, artificial intelligence, or data analytics;
- Adsorbent synthesis and characterization;
- Catalysis and reaction engineering;
- Industrial or applied research experience.
Funding and Eligibility
The position is fully funded, subject to satisfactory academic progress and research performance. Applicants must be eligible to apply for competitive scholarships and fellowships. Preference may be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents due to their eligibility for a broader range of federal and provincial scholarship opportunities. All applicants are strongly encouraged to seek external funding. Internal funding opportunities are also available on a competitive basis.
Selection Process
The recruitment process will involve multiple interview stages to assess the candidate's technical expertise, research potential, communication abilities, critical thinking skills, and overall compatibility with the objectives of the project and the CPPE Laboratory. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to discuss previous research projects and demonstrate their ability to analyze, interpret, and effectively communicate scientific and engineering data.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a single PDF file containing the following documents in the order listed below:
- Letter of motivation;
- Curriculum vitae;
- Academic transcripts;
- Names and contact information of two referees.
Applications should be submitted by email to: jan.kopyscinski [at] mcgill.ca with the subject line: "PhD Application – Carbon Capture"
Deadline
December 31, 2026, or until the position is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Additional Information
For information regarding admission requirements for the Chemical Engineering graduate program at McGill University, please visit: https://www.mcgill.ca/chemeng/grad/admission. International applicants are encouraged to verify degree equivalency and English-language proficiency requirements before applying.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
McGill University is committed to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive academic community. We welcome applications from Indigenous persons, racialized persons/visible minorities, women, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, priority may be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
