Structure-Activity mechanistic study of novel antimicrobial coatings on glass surfaces

Early application is recommended as candidates will be considered as they apply and the position may be offered to a successful applicant before the deadline.

There is an urgent global need to develop advanced antimicrobial coatings to combat bacterial and viral impact on the human population and the world’s economy. This is an opportunity for a 3.5- year PhD position, supported by Pilkington (NSG Group), to understand how chemistry at the nanoscale can deliver an advanced antimicrobial coating on glass.

This project will develop a molecular and nanoscale level understanding of the key chemical components, their spatial distributions and how that delivers antimicrobial activity (antibacterial and antiviral). The PhD project is based on Pilkington’s latest world-leading chemistry developments from its NSG European Technical Centre, Lathom, Lancashire.

The PhD student will be based at the Department of Chemistry, within the Open Innovation Hub for Antimicrobial Surfaces and the Surface Science Research Centre. The PhD project will use advanced techniques in surface and materials synthesis and will utilise Physical and Life Sciences imaging and spectroscopic techniques to investigate systems of choice.

 The PhD combines interdisciplinary science and global innovation. Pilkington (NSG Group) is a world leader in the manufacture and technological innovation in glass, including glass for solar PV, transparent electronics and antimicrobial glazing, with expertise in functional coatings and nanocomposites. The Open Innovation Hub for Antimicrobial Surfaces is at the forefront of translating scientific advances into innovation and one of the four core partners of the £23M National Biofilm Innovation Centre (NBIC) (www.biofilms.ac.uk).

The student will enrol in NBIC’s Doctoral Training Centre which trainsinterdisciplinary PhD researchers at the Interface of Physical and Life Sciences to understand the behaviour of microbes at surfaces that are central to the global challenges of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Health, Food Security, Clean Water and Energy.

For any enquiries regarding this opportunity please contact Lucy Jones on: [Email Address Removed]

To apply please submit an up to date CV and cover letter with names of at least 2 academic referees to Lucy Jones: [Email Address Removed]