PhD Studentship: Sustainable Bio-based Polymers for Liquid Formulations

Project detail:

Modern society is heavily dependent on the ubiquitous use of plastics. Global production of synthetic polymers derived from non-renewable petroleum feedstocks exceeds 350 million tonnes per annum. As a society, we urgently need to develop “green” renewable materials to replace petroleum-based feedstocks. One such approach has been to use starting compounds derived from biomass or natural resources. Using renewable starting materials is paramount to enable development of sustainable materials, towards a circular economy. In addition to this, there are major concerns about the use of polymers that persist in the environment.

In this project, bio-based block copolymers will be synthesised using monomers derived from renewable resources. Amphiphilic block copolymers are targeted as they have many applications in polymer liquid formulations, which have been recently identified as a key area for improvement by the RSC Sustainability Perspective. Here, stimuli-responsive properties of the polymers will be investigated and their degradation under environmental conditions will also be considered. The project will include polymer synthesis, characterisation, investigation into solution properties and environmental degradation studies.

This is an exciting area of research with many new discoveries to be made. You will join a team of researchers within our department working in the field of sustainable polymer chemistry. Your primary supervisor will be Dr Fiona Hatton, with expertise in bio-based polymers, polymer synthesis and copolymer self-assembly.

Loughborough University has an applied research culture. In REF 2021, 94% of the work submitted was judged to be top-rated as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent'.

We are a community based on mutual support and collaboration. Through our Doctoral College there are continual opportunities for building important research skills and networks among your peers and research academics.

Supervisors:

Primary supervisor: Dr Fiona Hatton

Entry requirements:

Applicants are expected to have a background in Chemistry, Materials, Polymer Science, or related discipline, and obtain at least a 2:1 or equivalent in their undergraduate degree (Bachelors or Masters).

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Funding information: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £ tbc, International £28,600)

Bench fees required: No

How to apply:

All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select AACME/ Materials. Please quote the advertised reference number: * AACME-24-017 * in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents. 

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

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