Next generation magnetic elastomers for sustainable biofilm control in dynamic environments

Apply and key information

This project is funded by:

Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)
Department for the Economy (DfE)

Summary

Biofilms are fascinating yet complex living materials: they play essential ecological roles, such as supporting bioremediation and facilitating nitrogen fixation for plants. However, they can also present serious challenges. In medical settings, biofilms can lead to persistent infections, and on ship hulls, they cause biofouling, increasing drag and fuel consumption. Globally, biofilm-related challenges cost an estimated £4 trillion annually, highlighting an urgent need for innovative solutions across industries.

This project aims to transform antifouling technology by developing a new class of magnetic elastomeric materials designed to minimize biofilm formation on natural and engineered surfaces. Our approach will combine magnetic actuation with engineered porosity and biologically functionalized surfaces, creating materials that resist biofilm development far more effectively than current alternatives. The candidate will lead the fabrication and testing of these materials against biofilm growth and macroscale biofouling in fluidic chambers, simulating real-world hydrodynamic conditions to validate both their efficacy and durability.

We seek a motivated, cross-disciplinary engineer or a biomedical scientist eager to explore new experimental techniques. You will gain hands-on experience with advanced microscopy and materials testing facilities within Ulster University's Engineering Research Centre, working at the cutting edge of bioengineering and materials science.

Why Apply?

Collaborative Research Network: Work with experts and industry partners in the UK and Europe, gaining insights from diverse perspectives.

Professional Development: Present findings at international conferences, publish in top-tier journals, and build connections in academia and industry.

Career Launchpad: This project will equip you with the skills, experience, and network to excel in both academic and industrial settings.

If you’re ready to make a real-world impact by tackling one of the most pressing issues in bioengineering and material science, this PhD project offers a unique and exciting pathway forward.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

First Class Honours (1st) Degree
Masters at 65%
Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)
Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance). A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.