PhD Position: Sustainable Polymer Synthesis and Circularity

The Sustainable Materials Innovation Hub seeks an enthusiastic chemistry graduate to join a dynamic and diverse team of researchers tackling challenges in plastics sustainability and circularity. This PhD position extends our expertise on small molecule catalysis (with polymeric frustrated Lewis pairs) and ring-opening polymerisation (especially lactones and their mimics) to develop systems that have triggered degradation and retained recyclability. While attitude and desire is the overriding factor in choosing a candidate, some experience in catalysis or polymer synthesis, including air-sensitive techniques, gel-permeation chromatography or biodegradation is beneficial.

The preferred candidate should be capable of working under their own initiative and building relationships in a diverse and hard-working team. The candidate should share our ambitions for real world impact of results, through publishing high quality papers, communicating results at international conferences and translating our results to industry partners, all of which require thoughtful communication skills.

The University is committed to Athena SWAN principles to promote women in science and indeed as a team we value equality, diversity and inclusion alongside our passion for sustainability.

This is a 3.5 year funded studentship covering fees and stipend
Open to UK students only.
Available start date in January 2022 or September 2022.

Click here to apply or for further information