Continuous-flow 14C-LC-mass spectrometry development for the life-sciences University of Glasgow in United Kingdom

This PhD project at the University of Glasgow’s Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre (SUERC) offers a unique opportunity to develop a cutting-edge analytical capability for radiocarbon detection. The research aims to combine the molecular specificity of liquid chromatography (LC) with the exceptional sensitivity of radiocarbon atom counting, enabling real-time 14C-chromatography for life-sciences applications. This innovative approach addresses longstanding limitations in drug pharmacokinetics and metabolism studies, where current radiometric atom-decay counting is inefficient and mass spectrometry is often decoupled from molecular analysis, increasing costs and reducing analytical utility.

The project leverages Radiocarbon Positive Ion Mass Spectrometry (PIMS), invented at SUERC and being commercialised with Thermo Fisher Scientific (TFS). The electron cyclotron resonance ion source (ECRIS) is uniquely compatible with the TFS IsoLink wet-oxidation LC interface. Key tasks include characterising a new LC-IsoLink package for ECRIS compatibility, optimising the PIMS spectrometer configuration, and demonstrating continuous-flow 14C-LC-mass spectrometry for pharmaceutical applications in collaboration with ARIEL (Applied Radioisotope and Environmental Laboratory, University of Edinburgh).

Students will work closely with technique originators and build on SUERC’s expertise in stable-isotope 13C-LC-mass spectrometry. The project involves mastering PIMS and its interfacing, optimising IsoLink reactor performance, carrier gas selection, and ECRIS peak broadening on the SUERC prototype PIMS instrument or alternative ion source test bench. Reverse-phase LC will be attempted, and the mass spectrometer tailored for radiocarbon detection at low ion energy, eliminating unnecessary complexity. The research anticipates coupling additional high-resolution, high-mass mass spectrometry, developed by SUERC and TFS.

Applicants should have strong backgrounds in analytical chemistry, physics, or instrumentation. Experience in mass spectrometry, ion beam systems, LC, pharmacology, and laboratory data analysis is advantageous but not essential. Prior experience in radiocarbon measurement is not required. The highly interdisciplinary project spans physical and life sciences, offering networking and career development potential at the nexus of academia and industry.

The successful candidate will join a cohort of six PhD students forming a focused mini-CDT, dedicated to developing next-generation analytical technologies across multiple isotope systems. The collaborative training environment enables students to work together across complementary projects, delivering scientific advances greater than the sum of individual studentships.

Project delivery includes opportunities to spend extended periods embedded within Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Research and Development hub in Bremen, Germany, working alongside industry engineers and scientists developing next-generation mass spectrometry technologies. This partnership provides unique insight into instrument design, prototyping, and translating new analytical concepts into operational technology.

The studentship provides full financial support, including payment of academic tuition fees, a UKRI-aligned stipend for 42 months, and coverage of all laboratory and research travel costs. The project is open to applicants from around the world. The student will be based at SUERC, located in East Kilbride, approximately 20 km from the main University of Glasgow campus.

To apply, visit the University of Glasgow College of Science and Engineering Graduate School application portal. Clearly state the project title, list the primary SUERC supervisor, and select SUERC as the host department. Applications are anticipated for a September 2026 start. For further information, contact Prof Stewart Freeman at [email protected].