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Microbial Induced Electrochemistry at the Local Site and Single Cell Level

Reference number CCPR107

Funding
Funded
Study mode
Full-time
Apply by
Start date
Year round
Subject area
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
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Overview

This funded PhD project brings together expertise in nanoscale surface science and local scale electrochemistry, cell-surface interaction probes, microbiology and imaging across physical and biological sciences. The successful candidate will study the electrochemical process that occurs both at the local site and single cell level and at the population level.

About this opportunity

Microbial Induced Corrosion (MIC) is a serious economic problem, with an estimated worldwide cost of $113 billion every year. MIC impacts a very wide range of industries, from power plants to construction, and even the health of humans with implants or protheses. While modern research has realised and demonstrated the relevance of microbial corrosion, the processes involved are still poorly understood, and mitigating strategies are still inadequate. This is not surprising given the variety of electrochemical processes at work in biofilms.

The appointed student will gain multidisciplinary skills and expertise in advanced characterisation techniques, including surface spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy, local electrochemistry and bio-imaging approach, leveraging the unique capabilities at our Open Innovation Hub for Antimicrobial Surfaces, Surface Science Research Centre and the Centre of Cell Imaging, both equipped with state-of-the-art techniques.

With this project, we aim for a better understanding of the fundamental phenomena of MIC, delivering novel mitigating strategies that will lead to next-generation surface design principles.

The appointed student will enrol in the NBIC Doctoral Training Centre, to be trained as an interdisciplinary scientist at the interface between physical and life sciences. Three external placements will be offered during the PhD, to develop technical skills, knowledge exchange know-how, and awareness of business practice in the innovation sector.

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Who is this for?

This project is open to UK applicants only. We’re looking for highly motivated candidates who have, or expect to have, at minimum UK 2:1 degree or equivalent in chemistry, physics, biophysics, materials science, microbiology or engineering.

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How to apply

  1. 1. Contact supervisors

    Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be addressed to Lucy Jones: Lucy.Jones2@liverpool.ac.uk.

    Project supervisors

  2. 2. Prepare your application documents

    You may need the following documents to complete your online application:

    • A research proposal (this should cover the research you’d like to undertake)
    • University transcripts and degree certificates to date
    • Passport details (international applicants only)
    • English language certificates (international applicants only)
    • A personal statement
    • A curriculum vitae (CV)
    • Contact details for two proposed supervisors
    • Names and contact details of two referees.
  3. 3. Apply

    Finally, register and apply online. You'll receive an email acknowledgment once you've submitted your application. We'll be in touch with further details about what happens next.

    Please quote the project reference number in your application: CCPR107.

    Applications should be made as soon as possible but no later than 15 June 2025. Candidates will be evaluated as applications are received, and the position may be filled before the deadline if a suitable candidate is identified.

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Funding your PhD

The award will pay full tuition fees and a maintenance grant for 3.5 years (for information for the 2025/26 session, the standard UKRI stipend is £20,780 full-time).
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Contact us

Have a question about this research opportunity or studying a PhD with us? Please get in touch with us, using the contact details below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

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