Application Deadline: 30 April 2026
Details
This interdisciplinary PhD project offers an exciting opportunity to advance the next generation of mine waste management strategies, integrating assessments of pollution, circularity and sustainability.
As global demand for critical minerals grows, so too does the need for novel approaches to manage the inevitable arisings of mine waste, that minimise environmental impact while maximising resource efficiency. This studentship will explore mine waste as both a legacy source of pollution and an opportunity for resource recovery.
The project will investigate fundamental processes in mine waste systems including geochemical weathering, metal mobility, contaminant transport, and the role of mineral–water interactions in shaping environmental risks and opportunities for resource recovery. Using a combination of laboratory experiments, fieldwork, and modelling, the student will characterise the behaviour of mine wastes and evaluate engineering strategies to mitigate contaminant release. Alongside this, the research will assess opportunities for the valorisation of mine waste—such as recovery of residual metals, production of construction materials, or use in carbon sequestration technologies—highlighting routes to reduce waste volumes and enhancing sustainability.
A central aim of the studentship is to integrate these findings into updated geoenvironmental models for ore deposits and mining operations. These new models will move beyond traditional pollutant-focused approaches to incorporate sustainability metrics and circularity principles. By combining scientific understanding with engineering innovation, the project will contribute to the development of future mining systems that are safer, more efficient, and more aligned with global sustainability goals.
The ideal candidate will have a background in Environmental Engineering, Earth sciences/geology, environmental science, chemistry or a related discipline, with enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research and real-world environmental challenges.
Research Environment
The successful candidate will join the Geoenvironmental Research Centre (GRC) within the School of Engineering at Cardiff University—an internationally recognised hub for innovation in geoenvironmental engineering. The GRC brings together experts across environmental and geotechnical engineering and has a long record of addressing real‑world challenges such as contaminated land and waste management. Established in 1996, the Centre has developed pioneering solutions with global impact and has been recognised through major accolades, including the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for its contributions to sustainable geoenvironmental research.
The Centre benefits from modern laboratories, state‑of‑the‑art computational facilities, and strong links with industry and international organisations. Its broad research portfolio provides an ideal environment for interdisciplinary training. As part of this vibrant community, the student will work alongside leading researchers engaged in cutting‑edge projects shaping sustainable engineering practice worldwide.
Learning and Development Opportunities
This interdisciplinary project provides an exceptional platform for professional and academic growth at the interface of environmental geochemistry and geoenvironmental engineering. The successful candidate will develop a comprehensive suite of skills commensurate with advanced doctoral research. These will include expertise in geochemical analytical techniques, contaminant transport processes and the characterisation and testing of mine wastes.
Through engagement with ongoing research within the Geoenvironmental Research Centre and the wider School of Engineering, the student will gain experience working with state‑of‑the‑art facilities, collaborating with specialists across multiple disciplines, and contributing to innovative solutions in sustainable resource management. Opportunities for professional development will include participation in research seminars, industry‑facing workshops, and international conferences.
Academic Criteria
Candidates should hold or expect to gain a first-class degree or a good 2.1 (or their equivalent) in either Environmental Engineering; Civil Engineering; Environmental Sciences; Earth Sciences/Geology; Chemistry or a related subjects.
Desirable skills: laboratory, field work and chemical/mineralogical analyses
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent)
Contact for further information
Please contact Prof. Devin Sapsford to informally discuss this opportunity by email sapsforddj@cardiff.ac.uk
How to apply
Applicants should submit an application for postgraduate study via the Cardiff University webpages (http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/engineering ) including;
· an upload of your CV
· a personal statement/covering letter
· two references (applicants are recommended to have a third academic referee, if the two academic referees are within the same department/school)
· Current academic transcripts
Applicants should select Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering), with a start date July 2026.
In the research proposal section of your application, please specify the project title and supervisors of this project and copy the project description in the text box provided. In the funding section, please select “I will be applying for a scholarship / grant” and specify that you are applying for advertised funding, reference ….
Deadline for applications
30th April 2026. We may however close this opportunity earlier if a suitable candidate is identified.
Funding Notes
Amount of Funding
Tuition fees at the Home rate are covered by the University (£5,006 in 2025/6) and an annual stipend equivalent to current Research Council rates is provided (£20,780 stipend for academic year 2025/6)
Eligibility
Eligibility Full funding is currently available to Home and EU applicants on a full time basis.
