Rob Morris
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PhD student position - DC3 - Magnetic Resonance-Based Characterization of Aerogel Systems Nottingham Trent University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemical Engineering
Funding
Available
Deadline
Dec 9, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
Nottingham Trent University
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About this position
This PhD project sits within the FAroGels Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network at Nottingham Trent University. The work focuses on food-grade, bio-based and biodegradable aerogels for sustainable food systems, with a particular emphasis on building advanced magnetic-resonance tools to understand how these highly porous materials behave internally.
The doctoral research will combine magnetic resonance imaging and time-domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD-NMR) to characterise aerogel structure, hydration dynamics and functional behaviour. The student will help develop protocol-based MRI methods and a compact bench-top TD-NMR device tailored to aerogels, using low-cost electronics, magnets and radiofrequency coils. The project is intended to generate analytical tools that can be applied across different aerogel formulations and target uses, and to translate structural insight into improved processing and quality control.
The position is embedded in a wider international network of doctoral candidates working on formulation, drying and application of the aerogels. This student’s toolkit will support those partners by providing characterisation methods that link pore-scale water mobility, structural variation and performance. The research environment includes laboratory-based experimentation, data analysis, scientific communication and close collaboration with academic and non-academic partners across the FAroGels consortium.
Supervision is shared by Professor Rob Morris and Dr Edward Breeds at Nottingham Trent University, together with industrial supervision from Dr Nazende Günday-Türel of MyBiotech GmbH. The project also offers planned secondments with partner institutions in Germany, Spain, Finland and Türkiye, adding an international and cross-sector dimension to the doctoral training.
The position is part of a structured doctoral network and is linked to a broader research programme on aerogels for sustainable food systems.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Master’s degree (or equivalent) in physics, electromechanical engineering, food engineering or a similar field. Strong laboratory and analytical skills in magnetic resonance (imaging or TD-NMR) are essential, and experience developing magnetic resonance hardware or devices is desirable. English proficiency is required, with IELTS above 6.0 in all subscores and an overall average of 6.5 or higher. Applicants should show strong motivation for doctoral research in an international interdisciplinary environment, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, good organization, communication and problem-solving skills, willingness to travel for secondments and network activities, and commitment to responsible research conduct, inclusion, collegiality and professional development.
How to apply
Apply through the FAroGels application website. Submit a CV, motivation letter, Bachelor’s and Master’s diplomas and transcripts or proof of completion, referee contact details and reference letters, plus proof of IELTS English-language proficiency. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
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Professors
Professor at Nottingham Trent University
United Kingdom
Research Interests
Food Engineering
Instrument Development
Biopolymer
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Materials Science
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Prepare your application
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