Resource valorisation and remediation of acid mine drainage (AMD) using advanced electrochemical systems

Eligibility: UK/International (including EU) graduates with the required entry requirements

Duration: Full-time – between three and three and a half years fixed term

Application deadline: 25 August 2026

Interview date: Will be confirmed to shortlisted candidates

Start date: January 2027

For further details contact: Associate Professor Sumit Roy

Introduction

Acid mine drainage (AMD) is one of the most significant environmental challenges associated with mining activities worldwide. Generated through the oxidation of sulphide minerals, AMD is characterised by highly acidic conditions, elevated sulphate concentrations, and the presence of dissolved metals and other potentially toxic contaminants. While considerable efforts have been directed towards AMD treatment, many existing approaches focus solely on environmental remediation and fail to exploit the valuable resources contained within these waste streams.

This Cotutelle PhD project between Stellenbosch University and Coventry University aims to develop an integrated approach for the remediation and valorisation of AMD, transforming mine-impacted waters into sources of valuable materials and clean energy. The research will investigate the selective recovery of critical metals, including copper, cobalt, nickel, manganese, and iron compounds, through precipitation and advanced treatment processes. By recovering these resources and reducing contaminant concentrations, the project seeks to improve the sustainability and economic viability of AMD management.

Following treatment and resource recovery, the resulting low-quality reclaimed water will be utilised as a feedstock for hydrogen production using a robust electrochemical system capable of operating under non-ideal water quality conditions. The project will explore innovative anodic oxidation pathways that utilise residual AMD-derived pollutants, enabling simultaneous contaminant remediation and hydrogen generation. This integrated approach has the potential to reduce energy consumption, improve process efficiency, and enhance the overall value proposition of AMD treatment.

By linking mine water remediation with critical metal recovery and low-carbon hydrogen production, the project will contribute to sustainable mining practices, support the circular economy, and advance the development of innovative resource recovery technologies for the energy transition.

Project details

This project is offered as a Stellenbosch University-Coventry University Cotutelle PhD, providing a unique international research environment that combines expertise in sustainable mining, resource recovery, electrochemical engineering, and green hydrogen technologies. The successful candidate will benefit from joint supervision, access to world-class research facilities at both institutions, and opportunities to develop an international research profile through collaborative activities and knowledge exchange.

The student will be based primarily within the Department of Chemical Engineering at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, working under the supervision of Professor Prathieka Naidoo, Chair in Green Hydrogen Integration and Transition. The research will focus on developing innovative strategies for the remediation and valorisation of acid mine drainage (AMD), one of the most significant environmental challenges associated with mining activities worldwide. AMD contains elevated concentrations of dissolved metals, sulphates, and other contaminants, but also represents an underutilised source of valuable resources.

The project will investigate approaches for the selective recovery of critical metals from AMD through precipitation and treatment processes, generating a treated low-quality water stream suitable for subsequent electrochemical utilisation. Attention will be given to recovering strategically important metals and improving the overall sustainability and economic viability of AMD treatment systems. Building upon this resource recovery platform, the project will explore the use of reclaimed low-quality water as a feedstock for hydrogen production using robust electrochemical systems capable of operating under non-ideal water quality conditions. The research will examine how residual contaminants may be utilised within alternative anodic oxidation pathways, enabling simultaneous pollutant remediation and clean hydrogen generation. This integrated approach aims to reduce treatment costs, improve resource efficiency, and contribute to the development of circular economy solutions for the mining sector.

As part of the Cotutelle programme, the student will undertake a two-month research placement at Coventry University during Year 2 of the PhD. During this visit, the student will work within Coventry University's hydrogen research laboratories, gaining hands-on experience with advanced flow-cell electrolyser technologies. Activities will include benchmarking laboratory-scale electrolysis systems, investigating operational performance under different water qualities, and evaluating strategies for integrating reclaimed water streams into hydrogen production processes.

The placement will provide valuable training in electrochemical testing, reactor design and hydrogen system operation, while facilitating the transfer of flow-cell electrolysis expertise between Coventry University and Stellenbosch University. The student will also engage with researchers working across hydrogen production, electrochemical engineering, and sustainable energy systems, strengthening international collaboration and supporting the development of future joint research initiatives.

Overall, the project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of environmental remediation, critical materials recovery, and green hydrogen production, while developing the technical, professional, and international skills required for a successful research career.

Funding

Tuition fees and bursary.

Benefits

The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills. All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.

Entry requirements

A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.

PLUS

The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years.
A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS academic overall minimum score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component).

Additional requirements

This studentship is suitable for candidates with a background in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Energy Systems, or a related discipline. Experience in acid mine drainage treatment, water remediation, electrolysers, electrochemical testing, electrocatalysis, or hydrogen technologies is desirable but training will be given. Applicants should be highly motivated, possess strong analytical skills, and have an interest in sustainable energy, resource recovery, and environmental technologies.

How to apply

To find out more about the project, please contact Associate Professor Sumit Roy.

All applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, plus a 2000-word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.

Apply to Coventry University