Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Evaluation of Microcrystalline Cellulose from Irish Forestry Biomass in Pharmaceutical Solid Dosage Forms Trinity College Dublin in Ireland

Trinity College Dublin, Ireland’s leading university and ranked 75th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026), invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship within the BIOFABRICATE project. This research is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) and supervised by Prof. Anne Marie Healy (School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences), with co-supervision from Dr. Ramesh Babu (School of Chemistry). The project is part of a multi-institutional programme led by the University of Galway and includes collaborations with Technological University Dublin, Atlantic Technological University, Dublin City University, Teagasc, and industry partners.

The BIOFABRICATE initiative focuses on developing and validating advanced bio-based materials and technologies from Irish forest biomass for applications in manufacturing, construction, food packaging, and pharmaceuticals. The PhD project specifically investigates the use of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) generated from Irish forestry biomass in pharmaceutical solid dosage forms. The student will evaluate the properties of MCC derived from Irish forest biomass (IFB-MCC) and assess its suitability as a tablet excipient for direct compression. Comparative studies will be conducted against MCC from commercial excipient suppliers to determine if IFB-MCC can serve as a viable alternative, supporting tablet manufacture with desired quality and performance characteristics.

Applicants should have a strong academic background in pharmacy, chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline. The application process requires submission of a full CV, a motivation statement (max one page), a writing sample, and contact details for two referees. Applications should be sent by email to Prof. Anne Marie Healy ([email protected]) with the subject line: BIOFABRICATE_[your full name]. The deadline for applications is 12 noon (Irish time), 25th May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview in June 2026.

Trinity College Dublin is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, non-traditional career paths, and international candidates. The university is an EU Sustainable Gender Equality Champion and holds an Athena Swan Silver Award. Trinity supports work–life balance and a family-friendly environment.

This fully funded PhD studentship offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to sustainable pharmaceutical innovation, collaborate with leading researchers, and develop expertise in bio-based materials and pharmaceutical technology at a world-class institution.