Anti-biofilm Surface Coatings Probed by Spatially Resolved Imaging and Microbiology Techniques. The University of Liverpool and Unilever.

A fully funded PhD studentship is available on high-resolution imaging and spectroscopic probing of microbial interactions at surfaces and interfaces. The project is a collaboration between the University of Liverpool and Unilever, a global company and a world leader in consumer products.

The successful candidate will be based within the Surface Science Research Centre, Department of Chemistry at the University of Liverpool, within a dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment. The research project will use state-of-the-art characterisation tools of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Fluorescence confocal microscopy, and Raman Microscopy to probe the physical interactions between specifically designed antimicrobial surfaces and microbial species.

Candidates must have (or about to obtain) a good master degree or first degree in Chemistry, Biophysics, Materials Science or equivalent, with a strong interest on the physical characterisation of biological systems. Candidates must be curious, creative, highly motivated, independent and able to work as a member of a team. The PhD student will join a vibrant research community and will be given the opportunity to interact with complementary research groups and attend national and international conferences. The student will also have the opportunity to undertake short-term placements in Unilever’s R&D laboratories as part of the PhD program.
The position is open to UK students only.

Interested candidates can contact Prof. Raval ([Email Address Removed]), sending a motivation letter, a CV, and the names and contact details of two references.

Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis until the suitable candidate is appointed; therefore, we encourage applications from qualified candidates as soon as possible.