MUM
Highly-Active Metal Complexes for Low Temperature Thermocatalytic Ammonia Production
✓ Fully Funded
🎓 Chemical Engineering
🎓 Chemical Physics
🎓 Energy Technologies
🎓 Inorganic Chemistry
🎓 Materials Science
🎓 Nanotechnology
🎓 Structural Chemistry
net zero
Malaysia PhD
catalysis
sustainable energy
ammonia production
green hydrogen
metal complexes
nitrogen fixation
Funded PhD at Monash University Malaysia focused on developing low-temperature catalytic systems for sustainable ammonia production and clean energy applications.
Project Description
This PhD project investigates alternative catalytic pathways for ammonia production under low-temperature and low-pressure conditions.
Ammonia is a key chemical for agriculture and a potential hydrogen carrier, but current production via the Haber–Bosch process is energy intensive. This project aims to develop highly-active metal complexes that enable more sustainable ammonia synthesis.
The research focuses on:
Design and synthesis of metal complexes using transition metals (Fe, Co, Ni, Mo)
Development of ligand systems to enhance catalytic activity
Mechanistic studies of nitrogen activation and hydrogenation
Catalyst optimisation for efficiency, selectivity, and durability
Integration with green hydrogen and sustainable energy sources
The project combines fundamental chemistry with practical applications in clean energy and sustainable industrial processes.
Entry Requirements
First Class degree in Engineering or Science (Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics or related)
Strong English communication skills
Preferred:
Interest in catalysis, green technology, or alternative fuels
Research experience and publications
Candidate should be able to work independently and collaboratively.
Strong English communication skills
Preferred:
Interest in catalysis, green technology, or alternative fuels
Research experience and publications
Candidate should be able to work independently and collaboratively.
How to Apply
Contact the supervisor (Prof Meng Nan Chong)
Submit:
1-page cover letter
CV (including publications if any)
Proof of English proficiency (if available)
Submit Expression of Interest (EoI) with research proposal
If shortlisted, proceed to application and interview
Note:
Process changes from May 2026
Check updated instructions from 4 May 2026
Submit:
1-page cover letter
CV (including publications if any)
Proof of English proficiency (if available)
Submit Expression of Interest (EoI) with research proposal
If shortlisted, proceed to application and interview
Note:
Process changes from May 2026
Check updated instructions from 4 May 2026
Eligibility
UK/Home
EU
International
Supervisor Profile
PM
Prof Meng Nan Chong, Dr Joshua Zheyan Soo
Monash University Malaysia, Engineering and Information Technology
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