Tailoring Carbohydrate‑Derived Polymers for High‑Performance, Microplastic‑Free Agricultural Coatings University of Bath in United Kingdom

Project Overview: The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Sustainable Chemical Technologies at the University of Bath is offering a fully-funded four-year PhD studentship starting September 2026. This project, in partnership with Croda and Incotec, focuses on developing high-performance, biodegradable, carbohydrate-derived polymer coatings for agricultural seeds, directly addressing the global challenge of microplastic pollution in agriculture.

Research Focus: The project aims to replace conventional petrochemical-based seed coatings with innovative, environmentally responsible materials. You will design and synthesise new biobased polymers, particularly from renewable feedstocks like seaweed-derived polysaccharides, and tailor their properties for optimal mechanical strength, adhesion, water compatibility, and biodegradability. The research will span the full lifecycle of materials development, from molecular design and synthesis to real-world performance testing on seeds such as wheat, corn, cotton, and soybean.

Training & Collaboration: As part of the CSCT, you will join a multidisciplinary cohort and begin with a one-year MRes blending taught content and research projects. The project includes close collaboration with Croda’s Sustainable Polymer R&D team in Yorkshire and Incotec’s Seed Enhancement laboratories in the Netherlands, providing hands-on industrial experience and exposure to sustainability-driven innovation. Life cycle assessment (LCA) will be integrated to ensure genuine environmental benefits.

Eligibility: Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a First Class or good Upper Second-Class Honours degree (or equivalent) in polymer chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or biomaterials. A master’s degree is advantageous. Non-UK applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements. The studentship is open to both Home and International candidates, though international awards are limited to 30% of available EPSRC Industrial Landscape Awards.

Funding: The studentship covers tuition fees, an annual stipend at the UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27) plus a £2,000 enhancement, and an increased consumables budget for four years.

Application Process: Formal applications should be submitted via the University of Bath’s online portal for the Integrated PhD in Sustainable Chemical Technologies. Informal enquiries are welcomed by Dr Hannah Leese ([email protected]) or Dr Maciek Kopeć ([email protected]). The deadline for applications is 30 April 2026.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: The University of Bath values diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups. Applicants with mitigating circumstances affecting their academic record are invited to explain these in their personal statement.

For more information, visit the project page or contact the supervisors directly.