PhD Studentship: Intelligent Sensor Fusion for Sustainable Cleaning in the Food Industry

We are seeking a motivated PhD researcher for an exciting project aimed at improving sustainability in the food industry.

The UK’s food and drink sector, the largest manufacturing industry, consumes 430 million litres of water daily—10% of total industrial usage—and is the fourth-largest industrial energy consumer. Globally, food production contributes over a quarter of all carbon emissions. One of the most resource-intensive processes in this sector is the cleaning of processing equipment, which accounts for around 30% of a site's water and energy use.

Cleaning is typically done using automated Clean-in-Place (CIP) systems, which often over-clean due to a lack of real-time fouling detection. Additionally, valuable post-process water is frequently discarded due to inadequate monitoring. This project aims to address these inefficiencies by developing innovative technologies for cleaning optimization and water reuse.

The research will explore the use of ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence imaging to monitor food fouling removal during CIP processes and integrate in-line sensors to assess water quality for reuse. Since most foods contain fluorophores that fluoresce under UV light, detecting this fluorescence can enable real-time monitoring of cleaning efficiency

Key objectives include:

• Developing high-quality optical fouling detection
• Correlating water quality parameters using existing monitoring sensors
• Creating decision-support tools for cleaning and water management

The PhD researcher will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to publish in top-tier journals and present at international conferences. Industry collaboration and trial access will also be encouraged.

Candidates should have a strong background in engineering, applied physics, or related fields, along with expertise or interest in sensor technologies, water chemistry, or data analytics. Strong problem-solving skills and a passion for research innovation are essential.

Funding information:

The Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering is offering a PhD studentship to fund one of three advertised projects commencing July 2025. Projects starting with the advert reference ‘SA24’ will be competitively assessed.

The funding award is for 3.5 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum plus tuition fees at the UK rate. The studentship also offers a £2,000 Research Training Support Grant. Due to funding restrictions, this Studentship is only available to those eligible for UK fees.

Entry requirements:

An undergraduate degree at at least the level of 2:1 or equivalent in the field of engineering or physical sciences, or a related area. A postgraduate level qualification with at least a merit or equivalent in a related field would be advantageous.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements.

How to Apply:

Apply online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering’ and quote the advert reference number ‘SA24-WS-EW’ under the ‘Finance’ section of the application.

Applications must include a personal statement, up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV), details of two referees (one from your highest degree qualification), and certified academic certificates and transcripts for all completed degree programmes. Submission of a Research proposal is not essential but may strengthen your application.

Incomplete applications received after the advert closing date may not be considered for interview. Interviews are expected to be held in late April/May 2025. You will be contacted by the project supervisor if shortlisted for interview.

The School will use the selection criteria to help make a decision against your application.

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