Jennifer McManus

This PhD project at the University of Bristol focuses on mapping enhanced water density fluctuations around complex molecules, with applications ranging from hydrophobic surfaces to proteins. The research aims to deepen our understanding of the hydrophobic effect, a phenomenon central to processes such as protein folding, enzyme activity, drug binding, nanomaterial self-assembly, and biomolecular condensation. Recent findings suggest that the hydrophobic effect is driven by enhanced fluctuations in water near critical surface phase transitions, rather than solely by hydrogen bond disruption. Building on this insight, the project will bridge the gap between idealized models and realistic biological and soft matter systems, such as micelles and membranes. The work will link microscopic interfacial behavior to macroscopic function, providing new physical insights relevant to biophysics, pharmaceutical design, and nanotechnology. The research will employ both coarse-grained and atomistic models to study the effects of temperature, pressure, and chemistry on interfacial fluctuations. Advanced techniques like metadynamics and data-driven approaches will be used to connect surface properties to water behavior, aiming to develop a quantitative framework for predicting water-mediated interactions in biological and nanotechnological contexts. The project benefits from collaborations with experts in protein aggregation and biomolecular structures, and will utilize the University of Bristol's world-class computational facilities, including the ISAMBARD 3 supercomputer and BlueCrystal Phase 5 High Performance Cluster. As a member of the Physics Graduate School, the successful candidate will join a vibrant, diverse community and have access to comprehensive training, support, and career development resources. Funding is available for home students, covering living expenses at the UKRI rate, tuition fees, and training costs. A limited number of fully-funded places are available for outstanding international candidates, with the option for others to apply with external or partial funding. Applicants should have a strong background in physics or a related field, and meet the University's English language requirements. The application deadline is 19 January 2026. For more information, contact the Bristol Physics Graduate School at [email protected].