Luke Higgins

I am studying for an interdisciplinary MSc/PhD in the Doctoral Training Centre for Bioenergy

E: pmljrh@leeds.ac.uk

Background

I graduated from the University of Kent in 2016 with an integrated MPhys(Hons) in Physics with a year abroad at the University of California. My undergraduate work was focused on condensed matter physics, synthesising new metal-organic frameworks with multiferroic properties. During my time at University I worked closely with two renewable energy companies, specialising in bespoke low-carbon installations and systems design.

Research Interests

Pyrolysis of biomass leads to the production of biochar. Biochar has been well-studied for its use in soil amendment strategies for 1) enhanced nutrient retention 2) contaminant control and 3) improved soil fertility. My PhD aims to characterise the functionality of chars and their interactions with nutrients, contaminants and soils by utilising state-of-the-art X-ray synchrotron techniques such as XAS and STXM. It is hoped that this will lead to a more fundamental understanding of the surface and deep functionality of and interactions between these materials, possibly leading to scalable industrial technologies.

Why I chose the CDT in Bioenergy

Having studied for an integrated masters, I didn’t feel like I had enough information to choose a specific topic in the energy sector, but was sure that I wanted to continue in the university environment. The CDT allows you to sharpen your knowledge in this area before making a final decision on the PhD topic. The CDT also has the added benefits of funding, excellent equipment and a cohort system that allows for support, friendship and teamwork.