PhD Medical Studies: Systematic assessment of Hepatic micro- and nanoplastic accumulation
Investigate the impact of micro- and nanoplastics on liver disease within a multidisciplinary research environment.
Best for:Best for candidates with a background in biomedical or environmental sciences and an interest in hepatology and analytical chemistry.
Overview
The University of Plymouth is offering a three-year, fully funded PhD studentship focused on the environmental health challenge of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the liver. Based in the Centre of Environmental Hepatology, the project aims to quantify MNP accumulation in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and investigate their toxicity using organoid models. The successful candidate will work with a multidisciplinary team to develop biological reference materials and establish the mechanistic evidence for Plastic-Induced Liver Injury. This position provides access to advanced analytical technologies and clinical samples to advance understanding of the gut-liver axis.
What you'll do
- Quantify and characterise micro- and nanoplastics in human liver, blood, and bile samples from MASLD patients.
- Conduct investigations into MNP toxicity, accumulation, and clearance using patient-derived organoid models.
- Develop and validate novel tissue-based biological reference materials for standardized MNP analysis.
- Perform statistical correlation analysis between MNP burden, polymer composition, and clinical fibrosis severity.
- Utilize advanced analytical technologies including Pyrolysis-GC/MS, Raman spectroscopy, and electron microscopy.
- Contribute to the research output of the Centre of Environmental Hepatology through collaborative multidisciplinary work.
Requirements
Degree required: First or Upper Second Class (2:1) honours degree in a relevant discipline.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in each component.
Instruction: English
- Strong background in Biomedical Science, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Toxicology, or Chemistry.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- High level of motivation and organizational skills.
- Open to UK and Overseas students.
- Must hold a First or Upper Second Class (2:1) honours degree.
- Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification is preferred.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16
Interested candidates should apply through the official university portal provided in the job link. Ensure all required academic documentation is prepared and submitted before the closing date.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Cover letter
- Reference letters
Contact
Shilpa Chokshi· Professor
https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/research/centre-of-environmental-hepatology
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