PhD Studentship: Enzymatic Recycling of Polyester Plastics
Join a fully funded PhD project at the University of Birmingham to engineer enzymes for industrial plastic recycling.
Best for:Best for aspiring researchers with a strong background in protein biochemistry and a passion for sustainable plastic recycling technologies.
Overview
This fully-funded PhD studentship is hosted within the School of Biosciences at the University of Birmingham as part of the Engineering Biology Research Group. The research focuses on designing and engineering enzymes for the biorecycling of ubiquitous polymers such as PET, bridging laboratory-scale discovery with real-world commercial applications. Working closely with international academic and industrial partners, the candidate will develop robust enzymes tailored for waste feedstocks and pilot-scale facilities. The successful applicant will receive comprehensive hands-on training in protein biochemistry, biophysical characterization, and bioreactor operations.
What you'll do
- Design and engineer enzymes targeted at breaking down real-world waste polyester feedstocks.
- Perform protein expression, purification, and comprehensive biochemical and biophysical characterization.
- Develop and utilize robotic assay systems for high-throughput screening.
- Conduct experiments using bioreactors to evaluate enzyme performance on waste plastic materials.
- Collaborate with industrial partners through regular online progress updates and contribute to pilot-scale trials.
- Present research findings at internal group meetings and international network events.
Requirements
Degree required: MPhil, MSc, or equivalent research experience in a relevant scientific field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Strong academic background in protein biochemistry
- Hands-on experience with protein expression and characterization techniques
- Demonstrated ability to plan and execute laboratory-based experiments independently
- Good communication skills for presenting scientific data and collaborating with industrial partners
- UK home students
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-01-13
Prepare a full curriculum vitae including academic transcripts, a cover letter highlighting your relevant research background, and two academic references. Submit your complete application package through the designated external application portal.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Cover letter
- 2 academic references
Contact
John McGeehan· Professor
https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/biosciences/mcgeehan-john
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