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Fully Funded PhD in Novel Polymer Systems for Ostomy Adhesive Applications Aston University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Fully funded PhD covering all tuition fees and including an annual stipend.
Deadline
Sep 15, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
Aston University
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About this position
Fully funded PhD opportunity at Aston University in Novel Polymer Systems for Ostomy Adhesive Applications, working with Prof. Paul Topham and Dr Matthew Derry at the Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME) in collaboration with industry partner Coloplast.
The project focuses on polymer science, materials science, medical adhesives, and ostomy care. You will investigate new polymer adhesive materials for advanced ostomy baseplate technologies, aiming to improve adhesion strength, moisture management, viscoelasticity, and long-term stability in moist skin environments.
Research methods include polymer synthesis and fabrication, tuning charged-to-neutral monomers, hydrophilicity, and crosslinking density, plus characterization using modern analytical techniques such as FTIR, SEM, and mechanical testing. The work also examines polymer-biological interactions, interfacial behaviour with skin and bodily fluids, and degradation under physiological conditions.
Funding: fully funded, covering all tuition fees and including an annual stipend.
Eligibility: applicants should have, or expect to achieve, a relevant bachelor’s degree with First Class or 2.1, or a relevant bachelor’s degree plus a relevant master’s degree with Merit or higher. Strong laboratory skills, polymer/materials knowledge, critical thinking, and good communication/teamwork are expected. Experience with hydrogels or surface chemistry is desirable.
Application materials: transcripts and certificates, a research statement, a personal statement, two academic referees, evidence of English language ability, and a passport copy where relevant. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom. Interviews are online via Microsoft Teams.
Funding details
Fully funded PhD covering all tuition fees and including an annual stipend.
What's required
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, either a relevant bachelor's degree with First Class or 2.1, or a relevant bachelor's degree with First Class or 2.1 plus a relevant master's degree with Merit or higher. Equivalent international qualifications accepted by Aston University may also be eligible. Essential requirements include strong practical laboratory skills, confidence in experimental work, knowledge of polymer science or materials science, critical thinking, data analysis and independent problem-solving, and excellent communication and teamwork skills. Desirable experience includes familiarity with hydrogel materials and/or surface chemistry, experience with FTIR, SEM and mechanical testing, and interest in healthcare, sustainability, industrial collaboration, membrane science or circular economy principles.
How to apply
Prepare a complete application with all supporting documents, including transcripts and certificates, a research statement, a personal statement, two academic referees, evidence of English language ability, and a passport copy if relevant. Submit through the application route linked on the FindAPhD page; incomplete applications will be automatically rejected. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online via Microsoft Teams.
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