Durham University is leading a major research partnership to accelerate the UK’s shift to low-carbon energy. The initiative brings together Durham, Liverpool, Manchester, and Newcastle universities, alongside Royal Holloway, University of London, as part of the N8 Research Partnership.
The programme, backed by global energy firm Eni, will focus on decarbonising heavy industry in North-West England and North Wales and will explore ways to capture and store carbon dioxide (CO₂) safely. Researchers will also investigate the region’s geothermal resources, hydrogen storage, and other geoenergy options to support sustainable energy development.
Over the next three and a half years, the project will offer up to 14 PhD studentships and several postdoctoral positions, with training provided by the Durham Energy Institute’s Multidisciplinary Centre for Postgraduate Training in Energy.
Students and researchers will examine advanced subsurface technologies, including carbon capture and storage, deep geothermal systems, and CO₂ plume geothermal.
The collaboration aims to create low-impact energy systems that integrate surface and subsurface processes, reduce emissions, and support economic growth. By combining academic expertise with industry resources, the partnership seeks to strengthen UK energy security and sustainability while fostering new research and career opportunities.
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