Microplastics and Chemical Additives from Virgin and Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Packaging Material: Leachability, Toxicity, and Behavioural Aspects Coventry University in United Kingdom

This interdisciplinary PhD project investigates the environmental and health impacts of microplastics and chemical additives released from virgin and recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) packaging materials. The research is part of a cotutelle arrangement between Coventry University, UK and Deakin University, Australia, offering the unique opportunity to graduate with two PhDs from both institutions. The project is supervised by Dr A Bogush and a team drawn from both universities, and is based at the Centre for Agroecology, Water and Resilience at Coventry University.

Microplastics (MPs) are a growing global concern, especially in bottled water, where PET is a major source. The shift towards recycled PET (rPET) in line with circular economy strategies raises questions about safety, contamination, and material degradation, potentially increasing the release of MPs and chemical additives. This project aims to fill knowledge gaps by integrating environmental analysis, toxicology, and social science to assess risks and public perception associated with PET-based packaging.

The research is structured into three work packages: (1) comparative analysis of leachability of MPs and chemical additives from vPET and rPET (year 1 at Coventry University), (2) investigation of toxicity on human health (year 2 at Deakin University), and (3) social study of consumer perceptions regarding risks of vPET and rPET packaging (year 3 at Coventry University). Laboratory experiments and social studies will be combined, requiring skills in chemistry, environmental chemistry, instrumental analysis (FTIR, Raman, LC-MS, GC-MS), statistics, and data analysis.

Funding includes tuition fees, stipend, one return economy airfare between the universities, visa, and overseas healthcare for the mobility period. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training, technical, personal, and professional skills, and access to the Doctoral and Researcher College at Coventry University for career development.

Applicants must meet admission and scholarship criteria for both universities, have graduated in the top 15% of their cohort, and hold a relevant MSc/BSc or Masters degree with significant research component and high marks. Language proficiency (IELTS 7.0 overall, minimum 6.5 in each component) is required. Additional skills include laboratory experience, interdisciplinary research interest, statistics, independent and team work, and strong organisational skills.

To apply, contact Dr A Bogush at [email protected] for further information. Applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, and a 2000-word supporting statement. Apply via the FindAPhD link provided.