Research and innovation
Greener hydrogen production
A new process for producing hydrogen could save both energy and greenhouse gas emissions if implemented at wastewater treatment plants
Find out more
Pharmaceutical materials
Our experts are working with AstraZeneca to better understand chemical and physical engineering issues involved in the production of pharmaceutical materials
Find out more
Research and innovation
Research in the School of Chemical and Process Engineering takes a multi-disciplinary and modern approach to Chemical Engineering, integrating world-leading analytical infrastructure and state-of-the-art physical science. The breadth of our capabilities allows us to take a true ‘atoms-to-products’ approach to process engineering and design, with impact across virtually all industrial sectors.
We have strong links with Energy Leeds, the Bragg Centre for Materials Research, and the Institute of Process Research and Development.
Over 80%
of our research activity is
'world leading' or 'internationally excellent', latest REF
Over 101
academic and research staff
working with over 128 PhD researchers to deliver high-impact research
Top 100
in the world for Chemical Engineering
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2020
Our research
Advanced Engineering Materials
Our research covers metallic alloys, carbons, ceramics, glasses & composites and also includes polymers, molecular systems as well as organic crystals, colloids, emulsions and even biological systems.
More on Advanced Engineering MaterialsSustainable Systems and Processes
Our research includes the development of novel routes for chemical production including bio-catalysis, biomass conversion, nanotechnology, and the development of renewable and low carbon energy.
More on Sustainable Systems and ProcessesInnovative Manufacturing and Products
Our research involves the fundamental understanding of the interactions between different formulated product ingredients through multiscale experimentation.
More on Innovative Manufacturing and ProductsResearch degrees
Studying for a PhD will be a journey that will stimulate your passion for your subject and push you to reach your potential.
Search our projects, ideas, funding opportunities, research areas and PhD supervisors.
Collaborate with us
Working with business
We’re constantly looking to work alongside forward-thinking external partners with whom we can work on impactful and innovative R&D projects to develop the technologies of the future.
More on Working with businessAccess our facilities
Benefit from access to our range of specialist facilities, from the Leeds Electron Microscopy and Spectroscopy Centre to laser diagnostics laboratories.
More on Access our facilities