Dr Ernesto Hernandez
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
Faculty of Engineering – Manufacturing & Industrial Processes Division – Bioinspired Engineering Research Group (BIERG)
PhD Research opportunity (3 years).
Partially funded tuition fees depending on candidate’s calibre;
Fully funded materials, services and other expenses related to the project;
Excludes transportation, subsistence, accommodation and others.
This is an exciting opportunity to apply solution-oriented strategies by bridging the gap between chemical engineering and life sciences while working at the University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus (UNMC).
Self-funded students are invited to apply for a 3-year PhD opportunity to join The Bioinspired Engineering Research Group (BIERG) at the Manufacturing & Industrial Processes Division (Faculty of Engineering) of the University of Nottingham, a global top 75 University. The student will work in a dynamic research environment, as part of a multi-disciplinary team of researchers, and will undertake interdisciplinary research on bioseparation of recombinant proteins by applying molecular stickers.
New approaches are needed to establish a worldwide Bioeconomy that could reach billion-$ 450 by 2025. Enzymes are key players in this context but unfortunately they are usually weak to cope with the harsh conditions of traditional separation methods involving heat, pressure and shear stress to cite a few.
Some molecular stickers can separate biomolecules in the same mild-and-cheap way they separate dirtiness from aquariums or agents congesting the lungs. So, similarly, enzymes might be separated and transported by molecular stickers and recovered at the outlet of a simple device in a sustainable way.
This technology could have wider implications in a cross-range of disciplines ranging from the bioseparation of industrial enzymes to the development of future biosensors.
The candidate will a) register at UNMC; b) become a member of BIERG; c) undertake experimental investigations in UNMC; d) work in an international environment and will be required to assist in the design, setup, execution and interpretation of the experiments, and further computational implementation of the findings; e) apply for opportunities to present the research outputs locally and at international conferences; f) benefit from BIERG’s research portfolio.
Requirements:
i) Essential: No nationality restriction but must be eligible to reside and study in Malaysia; strong background in transport phenomena; 1st class BSc from a prestigious university or MSc with Distinction; hold a degree in Chemical Engineering; Biochemical Engineering; Bioprocessing; Biochemistry or cognate discipline. IELTS 6.0 (no elements below 5.5) or TOEFL (iBT): 79 (no elements below 19).
ii) Desirable: experimental experience in protein separation and purification. Fundamental knowledge and strong interest in applying bioinspired approaches in chemical engineering; good written and oral presentation skills; strong analytical and problem solving skills. Experience in surface chemistry involving enzymes is an advantage.
iii) Not eligible if: already registered for a PhD or currently enrolled in a degree program.
Funding Notes
Benefits
A world class degree (PhD) from the University of Nottingham;
Budget for materials and other related expenses (up to MYR 107, 000)
One-to-one coaching and supervision from an executive previously working in a top American chemical corporation and three global top-100 universities;
Access to state-of-the-art facilities and international network of partners
For details about the cost of living in Malaysia, please see:
http://www.nottingham.edu.my/International/LifeinMalaysia/Finance/Index.aspx
References
Selection process:
Stage 1.
Please send electronic copy of the following documents with translation in English wherever it applies:
1) CV (2 pages maximum);
2) IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 79 certificate (test results must be less than 2 years old);
3) Proof of 1st class BSc from a prestigious university or MSc with distinction;
4) Covering letter stating how your interests and experience relate to the project;
5) Academic transcripts;
6) The names and email addresses of two academic referees
to Dr Ernesto Hernandez, email: Bierg@nottingham.edu.my.
Deadline: 31st October 2014.
Stage 2.
Only successful candidates will be notified. After notification, you will have one week to submit your Admission Application on the university online platform. Therefore, you must find the way to have the following documents ready to be uploaded in an online application form:
• academic transcripts from all university-level study
• proof of English language competency
• copy of your passport (photo page only)
• proof of payment for your application fee (it will be a bank transfer of about $50 USD, ask your bank for the procedure and timing)
Starting date: February 2015
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