Structural effects in alternating biodegradable polymers

Dr Alison Paul Dr Alison Paul - People - Cardiff University is looking for a PhD student to join the Soft Matter Research Group for a project on “Structural effects in alternating biodegradable polymers”.

Research in our group covers a broad range of polymeric systems, including the formulation of active drugs for innovation led projects, the detailed study of solution behaviour using advanced neutron scattering and computational modelling methods, and the use of a range of physicochemical and spectroscopic techniques to understand the interactions of polymers with particles and surfactants. To achieve these aims we often work collaboratively with a range of medical, biochemical, synthetic and computational scientists, bringing our focus on understanding structure-activity relationships to the design of next-generation materials.

The specific project is a collaboration with the Ward Group Dr Ben Ward - People - Cardiff University to understand structural influences on the solution behaviour and biodegradability of new polymers which have long-term potential as single use plastic replacements, drug delivery and materials applications.

The project will involve:

·        modification of polymers by simple grafting chemistry to create new families of polymers with different properties.

·        studies of solubility and solution conformation using a wide range of spectroscopic methods, scattering techniques (light, X-ray).

·        experiments at international facilities for neutron scattering studies on solution behaviour and self-assembly.

·        studies to determine how degradation is affected by polymer structure.

Academic criteria

We require applicants to have a 2.1 BSc or equivalent to be considered for PhD study.

If English is not your first language that you must fulfil our English Language criteria before the start of your studies. Details of accepted English Language qualifications for admissions can be found here https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/international/english-language-requirements/postgraduate

How to apply

To apply please complete the online application - https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/chemistry and state the project title and supervisor name