Lancaster University’s new institute focusing on sustainability welcomes applications for two 3.5-year PhD studentships, funded by EPSRC (current stipend at £17668 per year). Successful candidates will study one of the six projects advertised.
Brief:
Life cycle analysis studies have demonstrated that electrical waste plastic recycling, when compared with virgin material, prevents 87% of gas emissions and reduces up to 90 % the energy consumption.
This project investigates the evolving role of the compatibilizers in the recycling processing of plastics available in electrical wastes which help address the blending formulations of mixed plastics. The interdisciplinary academic team will provide expertise in process design, purification, blending and scaleup. Understanding the interactions between the compatibilizers and the microstructure development of plastics will be supported by state-of-the art experimentation and tailored engineering solutions. You will have the opportunity to perform advanced rheological testing and chemical characterisation of the plastics help reach cost-effective solutions for proof-of-concept products (e.g., increased thermal stability; reduced brittleness). You will be benefit from the expertise from both departments (Engineering & Lancaster Environment Centre) and have the opportunity to conduct industry placements.
Send applications to [Email Address Removed] and [Email Address Removed]
Entry requirements:
Candidates should have a relevant degree at 2.1 minimum or an equivalent overseas degree in material sciences or chemistry; material, mechanical or chemical engineering or related disciplines. Knowledge of design methods applied to process chemistry and engineering. Previous experimental experience in polymer processing and analytical techniques would be beneficial.
Excellent skills in project management, practical laboratory knowledge, record keeping and organisation and professional working attitude with a multidisciplinary project team would be advantageous. Alongside excellent communication skills, including preparing oral presentations, reports, and journal papers.
Studentship funding
Full studentships (UK tuition fees and stipend (£17,668 2023/24 [tax free]) for UK students for 3.5 years. Funding is provided by the EPSRC (Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council). The funding is aimed at UK Home students although exceptional international candidates can be put forward for no more than 30% of the EPSRC allocation to Lancaster University.
How to apply:
Informal enquiries and formal submissions should be made to the supervisors:
[Email Address Removed] and [Email Address Removed]
Formal applications should be made in the form of a CV and a personal statement no longer than 500 words explaining:
- Interest in the project,
- Experience
- Why we should consider your application.
A preferred candidate for each project will be selected by the potential supervisory team. This group of candidates will then be formally interviewed to allocate the two funded places.
Interviews will be held on the 2nd May between 1-5pm by a panel including the supervisor for each project.
All applications must be submitted by midnight Friday 21th April
Continue with Facebook
