Coventry University PhD Studentship

Coventry University and Deakin University are offering a fully funded PhD in an interdisciplinary cotutelle project on microplastics, PET packaging, chemical additives, environmental toxicology, and consumer behaviour.

Project title: “Microplastics and chemical additives from virgin and recycled Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging material: Leachability, toxicity, and behavioural aspects.” The project examines the comparative release of microplastics and additives from virgin PET (vPET) and recycled PET (rPET), the potential toxicity to human health, and public perceptions of packaging risks.

Research structure: WP1 at Coventry University focuses on leachability analysis of MPs and additives; WP2 at Deakin University investigates toxicity and human health impacts; WP3 returns to Coventry University for a social study on consumer perceptions and behavioural aspects. The successful candidate will graduate with two PhDs, one from Coventry University and one from Deakin University, under a jointly supervised doctoral programme.

Funding: The studentship includes tuition fees and stipend, plus one return economy airfare to GITAM/Coventry University, visa support, and overseas healthcare for the mobility period.

Eligibility: Open to UK, international, and EU graduates who meet the admission and scholarship criteria of both universities. Applicants should typically be in the top 15% of their undergraduate cohort, with a strong relevant degree (high 2:1 or equivalent) or a relevant master's degree with a significant research component and distinction-level performance. IELTS 7.0 overall with at least 6.5 in each component is required. The ideal candidate will have a background in chemistry or environmental chemistry, laboratory and instrumental analysis experience (FTIR, Raman, LC-MS, GC-MS), strong interest in interdisciplinary research, and good statistics/data analysis skills.

Deadline: 7 May 2026. Start date: September 2026.

How to apply: Contact Associate Professor Anna Bogush for project details if needed, then submit the full application with supporting documents, a covering letter, and a 2000-word statement explaining your fit for the project via Coventry University.