PhD Studentship: Development of Imaging Sensing Systems for Monitoring Wound Infection

This is a fully-funded 3-year position in the School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, to work on an interdisciplinary project in the group of Dr Gemma-Louise Davies. The project will involve the development of MRI active nanocomposites which can sense the presence of infections in wounds following surgical intervention. The student will gain expertise in nanoparticle design, preparation and purification, and hydrogel preparation approaches, as well as characterisation techniques including, but not limited to, electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, spectrometry and relaxometry.

Please visit our group website for more details about our research: www.gemmalouisedavies.com

The successful applicant will demonstrate strong interest and self-motivation in the subject and the ability to think analytically and creatively. Candidates will be expected to take ownership of their project and engage with collaborative efforts with other research groups in the School of Chemistry and clinicians. An enquiring and rigorous approach to research as well as good team-working, observational and communication skills (both presentation and writing skills in English) are also essential. Previous research experience in contributing to a collaborative interdisciplinary research environment is highly desirable but not essential, as training will be provided.

The successful applicant will be joining a group of researchers with diverse research projects, and will be based in brand new state of the art Chemistry laboratories at the rapidly growing University of Birmingham.

Due to funding restrictions, only UK students are eligible for this studentship. The start date for the PhD is September 2025. Applications will close 17th February with interviews shortly thereafter, but the position will be filled as soon as an appropriate candidate is found.

Applicants should include in their application a motivation letter, CV and contact info for 2 referees. Informal enquiries to Dr Davies (g.davies.7@bham.ac.uk).

The School of Chemistry seeks to attract outstanding, inspirational and talented people, supporting them to succeed and celebrating their success. We value diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community. The School of Chemistry holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, in recognition of its work in supporting and transforming gender equality, and the University of Birmingham holds a Race Equality Charter Bronze Award and contributes to the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index. We support flexible working and studying for all.

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