PhD in Food Science, Surface Chemistry, and Biomimetic Adhesion at University of Leeds University of Leeds in United Kingdom

Two fully funded PhD opportunities are available in the group of Professor Gleb Yakubov at the University of Leeds, in collaboration with PepsiCo and the BBSRC Food Consortium Collaborative Training Partnership (CTP). The projects focus on the surface chemistry of snacks and biomimetic approaches for enhancing adhesion in food processing, offering a unique chance to work at the intersection of food science, materials science, physical chemistry, and biophysics.

The 'Biomimetic Approaches for Enhancing Adhesion in Food Processing' project aims to explore innovative adhesion mechanisms inspired by plant biology to develop healthier and more sustainable food products. Research will focus on adhesive interactions between textured surfaces and microscopic particles, with an emphasis on understanding the mechanical and topological properties that enable rapid and robust adhesion. The project will utilize advanced characterization techniques such as Confocal Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Small Angle X-Ray and Neutron Scattering (SAXS and SANS).

The scholarship is open to both Home and International applicants and covers full tuition fees, a UKRI maintenance grant of £20,780 per year (2025/26 rate), and an industrial top-up of £1,800 per year from PepsiCo. The award is for four years (full-time) or part-time equivalent, renewable annually subject to satisfactory progress. International applicants should note that relocation, visa, and health insurance costs are not covered.

Applicants should have at least a first class or upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as food science, chemistry, materials science, or a related field. English language proficiency is required, with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall and at least 6.0 in each component, or equivalent. Applicants must not already hold or be studying for a doctoral degree and must be able to take up the award by 1 April 2026, living within a reasonable distance of the University of Leeds during the scholarship.

To apply, candidates must submit a formal application through the University of Leeds research degree portal, selecting 'PhD Food Science and Nutrition Full-time' and clearly stating the project title and Professor Gleb Yakubov as the proposed supervisor. Required documents include a personal statement, CV, academic transcripts, and English language certificates if applicable. The application deadline is 30 November 2025, and the project start date is 1 April 2026.

For further information, contact Professor Gleb Yakubov ([email protected]) or the Postgraduate Research Admissions Team ([email protected]). More details and application instructions are available on the University of Leeds website.