Autonomous, On-Demand Manufacture of Polymer Nanomaterials in Continuous-Flow

This PhD project at the University of Liverpool offers an exciting opportunity to develop an autonomous, continuous-flow platform for the discovery, production, and optimization of precision polymer nanomaterials. The aim is to create a 'micelle machine'—an automated system enabling non-experts to manufacture valuable nanomaterials on demand. The project is highly interdisciplinary, combining expertise in polymer synthesis, self-assembly, flow chemistry, advanced analysis techniques, and AI-guided optimization. Engineered polymer nanomaterials are transformative due to their cost-effectiveness, versatility, and functional adaptability. However, realizing their full potential requires innovative strategies for discovering and manufacturing materials with uniform size and shape. Continuous-flow processes provide modular, scalable, and autonomously controlled solutions for polymer synthesis and self-assembly. This research will develop a versatile platform integrating in-line and on-line analysis (including SAXS/SANS) and use the resulting data to build an AI-driven system capable of producing non-spherical nanomaterials with precise characteristics. The project will accelerate the discovery and development of precision polymer nanomaterials, overcoming current limitations in producing challenging materials for applications in nanomedicine and optoelectronics. The successful candidate will gain broad skills in chemical and polymer synthesis, self-assembly, nanoscience, flow chemistry, reactor design, advanced analysis, data science, coding, automation, AI, and high-throughput experimentation. The supervisory team includes Dr. S Street (polymer synthesis and self-assembly), Prof. A Slater (flow chemistry and in-line analysis), Dr. WS Sharratt (scattering techniques and high-throughput experimentation), and Prof. S Maskell (AI and machine learning). The project is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Digital and Automated Materials Chemistry, based in the Materials Innovation Factory—the largest industry-academia colocation in UK physical science. Training is developed with 35 industrial partners, preparing researchers for flexible, enterprising careers across domains. Funding is provided through the EPSRC DAMC CDT Studentship, covering full home tuition fees and a maintenance grant for four years, with additional support for research expenses and limited scholarships for outstanding international students. The University of Liverpool is committed to diversity and inclusion, offering reasonable project adaptations for students with personal circumstances or disabilities. Applicants should have a strong academic background in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related fields, with interest or experience in polymer chemistry, flow chemistry, data science, machine learning, or nanomaterials. The position is expected to start in October 2026, and candidates are encouraged to apply early. For informal enquiries, contact [email protected]. Please review the CDT guide on 'How to Apply' and submit your application online, indicating Chemistry as the subject area and including the project title and reference number CCPR167.