Programme description

Process integration of chemical processes focuses on the design, optimisation, operational optimisation and control of chemical and biochemical processes. We have particular specialism in the oil and gas sector including petroleum engineering.

Process integration relates to processes in the petroleum, petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical and food processing industries. The emphasis is on a holistic approach to the process, rather than concentrating on individual operations, or the phenomena occurring in individual operations. The research in process integration started in the early 1980s with an emphasis on energy efficiency. The early focus was on systematic methods for the design of heat exchanger networks. Later, the ideas and techniques developed to solve the heat exchanger network problem provided the basis for the extension of the methodology into new areas. Find out more about this research area here.

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Science is a world leader in industrially relevant research and teaching in chemical engineering and related subjects.

We undertake leading-edge multidisciplinary, creative and relevant research on a wide range of topics. Focused on advancing the science and engineering of complex systems and addressing different scales and levels of complexity, the research in the department is carried out within four main research themes:

• Energy
• Health
• Sustainability
• Water

Our breadth of research expertise and highly advanced facilities make us an ideal choice whatever your doctoral interest.

Facilitating research across chemical engineering and bioscience, chemistry, mathematics and analytical and measurement science, means we can offer you the benefits of a large multidisciplinary institution at the same time as ensuring you are given personal support for your professional development.

Explore the range of research projects we offer, as well as the development and network opportunities you can expect as one of our postgraduates.

Coursework and assessment

Students will meet regularly with an academic project supervisor, who is responsible for the project, ensuring that facilities and training are available to make good progress. Annual progress reviews will take place with an independent academic mentor to ensure that the supervision arrangements and progress are satisfactory.

All research programmes have personal and professional development training units to enhance transferable skills. Training courses cover themes such as thesis writing, business skills, career management and presentation skills.