PhD Studentship: Bio-based Synthesis and Recycling of Plastics 1559 views

The School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology / School of Chemistry and Environmental Research Institute at University College Cork are inviting applications for a PhD Studentship in bio-based synthesis and recycling of plastics.

About the Position:

• The PhD research project will investigate biological approaches to both the synthesis and recycling of commonly used polymers and plastics.
• The PhD student will work under the direct supervision of Dr. Paul Young (School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology) and Prof. Justin Holmes, of the Materials Chemistry and Analysis Group (School of Chemistry and the Environmental Research Institute).
• The PhD candidate will conduct a specified programme of research under the supervision of Dr. Young and Prof. Holmes.
• The successful candidate must be able to work at the interfaces between biology, chemistry and materials science. Significant interdisciplinary interactions with researchers using chemical approaches to address the same questions are anticipated.
• The research project will employ advanced protein engineering and other cutting-edge techniques in order to develop and optimize novel enzymes and metabolic pathways for the production and recycling of plastics.
• This full-time PhD position is funded for up to 4 years.

Qualifications:

• Applicant must hold Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Materials or Environmental Science or a similar discipline.
• Enthusiasm and an awareness of environmental issues of materials sustainability in society.
• Good communication, organisation, interpersonal skills and the ability to work within a project team.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must show evidence of English proficiency

Remuneration: stipend €18,000 per annum; studentship will cover fees at the rate for EU students.

How to Apply:

Application to be sent via email to p.young@ucc.ie and quote “PhD Studentship” on the subject line of email including:

• CV
• Letter outlining any relevant experience and reasons for wanting to participate in the project (one-page)