Joint Industrial and EPSRC-funded PhD studentship in the Synthesis and Processing of Novel Biomaterials, in partnership with Haleon

This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Nottingham, starting late 2025 or early 2026, is hosted jointly by the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering and the School of Pharmacy. The research project centers on the synthesis of polymers that resist biofilm formation, with the aim of developing new health and consumer care products such as oral and skin health solutions. The work will build on patented polymer technologies from the University of Nottingham, focusing on anti-attachment performance without the use of antimicrobial agents that kill, thereby avoiding contributions to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). A key aspect of the project is scaling up the chemistry to produce materials at the hundreds of gram scale, enabling their use in formulation processing and the creation of novel demonstrator products. The studentship offers close collaboration with Haleon, a leading manufacturer of consumer health products, providing opportunities for industrial experience and research placements of up to a month in Haleon's laboratories. The project will expose the student to polymer synthesis, process development, and industrial formulation, with the goal of translating research into real-world products. Funding covers a 48-month period, including an enhanced stipend of £22,237 per annum and UK tuition fees; international students must pay the difference between UK and international rates. Applicants should hold or expect at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees (MChem/MSci, BSc+MSc) or substantial research experience are advantageous, as is experience in organic/polymer synthesis and material analysis. EU applicants with three years' UK residency before October 2025 may be eligible for full funding. Non-native English speakers must meet University language requirements (IELTS 6.0, minimum 5.5 in each element). The application deadline is October 18, 2025, but positions may be filled earlier, so early application is encouraged. For informal inquiries, contact Prof. Derek Irvine or Dr. Adam Dundas, then submit a formal application online, including your CV and quoting 'Haleon Studentship' in your personal statement.