Design, synthesis and applications of polymers and polymer colloids

The Fielding research group is based in the Department of Materials at The University of Manchester. Our research involves the design, synthesis and applications of polymers and polymer colloids for use in various applications.

We have expertise in the preparation of colloidal nanoparticles, colloidal nanocomposites and hydrogels using (controlled) radical polymerisation techniques. Characterisation of such materials during a PhD typically involves using an array of techniques such as, dynamic light scattering, disc centrifuge photosedimentometry, transmission & scanning electron microscopy, NMR spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, atomic force microscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering.

Projects are typically collaborative in nature, with currently available projects in the areas of:

- Sustainable, waterborne protective coatings

- Copolymer hydrogels as responsive structural biomaterials

- Biomedical diagnostics based on polymeric nano/micro-particles

Self-funded students, or students who have already secured sponsorship, are welcome to apply for PhD positions in our group at any time and should initially make an informal enquiry via email to [Email Address Removed]

At the University of Manchester, we pride ourselves on our commitment to fairness, inclusion and respect in everything we do. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, and encourage you to bring your whole self to work and study. We will ensure that your application is given full consideration without regard to your race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, nationality, disability, age, marital or pregnancy status, or socioeconomic background. All PhD places will be awarded on the basis of merit.