Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Chemistry and Wood Science for Low-Energy Pulping and Cellulose Fibres Trinity College Dublin in Ireland

Trinity College Dublin is advertising a fully funded PhD studentship in the School of Chemistry / CRANN with Prof. Ramesh Babu on the BIOFABRICATE project. The research topic is “Low-energy, pulping technologies for production of micro and nano cellulose fibres for packaging, adhesives, coatings and pharmaceutical applications.”

The project sits at the intersection of chemistry, materials science, polymer science, wood science, and environmental science. It aims to develop low-energy, low-emission pulping technologies to produce micro- and nanocrystalline cellulose from hard and softwood selected from Irish forests. The successful PhD student will work with BIOFABRICATE partners including Teagasc, TU Dublin, University of Galway, and Dublin City University, and will explore applications of MCC and NCC in coatings, cosmetics, adhesives, packaging, and excipients.

Funding includes tuition coverage and a tax-free stipend of €25,000 per annum for up to four years, plus a one-time laptop/PC fund and possible conference support. The expected start date is 1 September 2026.

Eligibility highlights include a first-class or upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent master’s primary degree, in chemistry, material science, wood chemistry, or a closely related discipline. Applicants should meet Trinity College Dublin PhD entry requirements and demonstrate strong interest in wood science, polymer chemistry, organic chemistry, and interdisciplinary research. Research experience, independent and collaborative working ability, and strong English communication skills are required; experience with cellulose fibre production, polymer characterisation, and Life Cycle Assessment software is desirable.

To apply, candidates should email Prof. Ramesh Babu with a CV, a one-page motivation statement, a writing sample, and contact details for two referees. The subject line should be BIOFABRICATE_[your full name]. The closing date is 22 June 2026 at 12 noon Irish time.