This fully funded PhD scholarship at the University of Leeds offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the surface chemistry of snack foods, focusing on uncovering adhesion mechanisms using advanced microscopy techniques. Hosted jointly by the School of Food Science and Nutrition and the Bragg Centre for Materials Research, the project is part of the BBSRC Food Consortium Collaborative Training Partnership and involves collaboration with PepsiCo, providing additional cohort training activities and industrial engagement. The research will explore how surface chemistry influences the adhesion properties of snack foods, utilizing state-of-the-art microscopy to analyze and characterize these mechanisms. The successful candidate will benefit from interdisciplinary supervision, access to cutting-edge facilities, and the chance to work closely with both academic and industry partners. The scholarship covers full tuition fees for four years, a generous UKRI maintenance stipend (£20,780 per year at the 2025/26 rate), and an additional annual top-up of £1,800 from PepsiCo. The award is open to both Home and International applicants, with flexibility for full-time or part-time study. Applicants must have been offered a place on a PhD program at the School of Food Science and Nutrition and must not already hold or be studying for a doctoral degree. The scholarship must be taken up by 1st April 2026, and recipients are required to reside within a reasonable distance of the University of Leeds during their studies. International students should note that costs related to travel, visas, and health insurance are not covered. This position is ideal for candidates interested in food science, materials research, and industrial collaboration, offering comprehensive training and support in a vibrant research environment.

This fully funded PhD scholarship is offered by the University of Leeds in the School of Food Science and Nutrition and the Bragg Centre for Materials Research, in partnership with PepsiCo and the Food Consortium Collaborative Training Partnership. The project focuses on biomimetic approaches to enhance adhesion in food processing, leveraging bio-inspired materials and advanced surface science to address challenges in food manufacturing. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team, working at the interface of food science, materials science, and industrial innovation. The scholarship covers full tuition fees for four years, a UKRI maintenance grant of £20,780 per year (2025/26 rate), and an additional industrial stipend top-up of £1,800 per year. Both Home and International applicants are eligible, though international students must cover their own travel, visa, and health insurance costs. The award is available for full-time or part-time study, with annual renewal subject to satisfactory progress. Applicants must have been offered a place on the PhD programme at the School of Food Science and Nutrition and must not already hold or be studying for a doctoral degree. The project offers opportunities for cohort training and industrial collaboration, providing a unique environment for research and professional development. The deadline for applications is November 30, 2025, and the award must be taken up by April 1, 2026. For further details and application instructions, candidates should consult the University of Leeds webpage and the FindAPhD project listing.