Early Career Researchers are a key part of the UKCCSRC community and we aim to deliver a programme of activities that supports their needs, including skills development and network building.

To make sure we do this effectively, the ECR Working Group helps to steer our ECR programme, organise ECR events and represent the UKCCSRC ECR community as part of the Advisory Council.

Meet current members of the ECR Working Group below…

Shervan Babamohammadi

As a Research Associate at the University of Wolverhampton and a former Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Brunel University London, I’ve developed an extensive background in CO2 capture and low-carbon hydrogen production. With a PhD in Chemical Engineering in CCS from the University of Malaya, I bring a decade of experience in experimental studies and process optimisation. I’m currently leading a pioneering industrial project at the National Brownfield Institute to design emission control systems for diesel generators aimed at achieving the 2050 Net-Zero target. My role involves comprehensive process and product design and mentoring CCS PhDs and ECRs. I’m keen to contribute to the UKCCSRC ECR Working Group by contributing to professional development, facilitating multidisciplinary understanding, and enhancing outreach in CCS. My goal is to mentor new PhD students, organise impactful events, and promote CCS awareness, aligning with the UKCCSRC’s mission to bridge academic expertise and public knowledge. For more information, and to connect, visit Shervan’s LinkedIn profile.

Mehdi Ghasemi

I’m a postgraduate researcher at the University of Manchester. My research focuses on leveraging molecular models and advanced computational techniques to gain profound insights into key dynamic processes in the transition to net-zero emissions, such as carbon capture, geological storage, and gas separation. My aim is to bridge the gap between microscale molecular interactions and macroscale phenomena, thereby facilitating a comprehensive understanding of complex systems and enabling predictive modelling at larger scales. I’m now focusing on the optimal design of mixed matrix membranes through filler geometrical features to improve CO2 gas separation using computational insights. As the ECR Working Group serves as a vital platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and driving innovation in CCS, I would like to contribute to this community by actively supporting initiatives such as networking events and workshop sessions that foster collaboration, enhance skills, and promote cutting-edge research in CCS. For more information, and to connect, visit Mehdi’s LinkedIn profile.

Aylin Kemal

I am a PhD researcher in Energy and Carbon Capture Technologies at Cranfield University, working on Cal DAC, a carbonate-based direct air capture (DAC) approach using calcium hydroxide for permanent CO₂ removal. My research combines experimental studies of carbonation behaviour with techno-economic analysis and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) to assess regional deployment potential across multiple countries, considering energy sources, geological storage, and infrastructure. I am keen to contribute to the UKCCSRC ECR Working Group through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and outreach supporting carbon capture and removal technologies. For more information, and to connect, visit Aylin’s LinkedIn profile.

Catrin Harris

Catrin, formerly at Imperial College London, is now a researcher at Utrecht University in the Netherlands.  Connect with her at LinkedIn.

Michael High

Michael, formerly at Imperial College London, is now a Sustainability Analyst at Sizewell C.  Connect with him at LinkedIn.

Gang Wang

Gang studied at Heriot-Watt University, where he is now an Assistant Professor.  Connect with him at LinkedIn.