PhD in Chemistry – New approaches to degradable water-soluble polymers at University of Glasgow

Bright, highly motivated candidates are invited to apply for a fully funded 3.5 year PhD position in the School of Chemistry, available to commence on 1st October 2025 in the Schmidt research group at the University of Glasgow.

The accumulation of polymer materials in the environment belongs to the major challenges in chemistry and materials science. Besides plastics and derived microplastics, water-soluble polymers are introduced into the environment as well, albeit invisible. Hence development of new water-soluble polymer materials with improved degradability is inevitable.

In the project, we will study the synthesis of new water-soluble polymers and their degradation properties. Both synthetic and analytical tasks are part of the project to assess structure-property relationships. The polymers will be formed via radical polymerisation techniques, i.e. free radical and reversible deactivation radical polymerisation and various initiation methods. We are looking to include precursors from renewable resources into our polymers in order to improve the carbon footprint of the synthesised materials. Furthermore, we will use the developed polymers for the synthesis of complex macromolecular architectures to introduce functionality, e.g. self-assembly in aqueous envir0nment. The introduction of degradable hydrophilic polymers will have a significant impact on the development of polymer science and the move to green materials.

The Schmidt group is active in the area of polymer chemistry with a focus on hydrophilic polymers, controlled polymerization for the synthesis of polymer hybrid materials and polymers for self-assembly with the target of catalytic and biomedical applications. More information can be found at:

http://www.schmidt-lab.com

Eligibility: We are looking for a motivated candidate with broad scientific interests to join the Schmidt Group. 1st or upper 2nd class MSc / MChem / BSc or equivalent  in a relevant discipline (chemistry, materials, etc.). The candidate should have experience working in a lab environment. Experience in polymer chemistry and basic organic synthesis is an advantage.

Start Date: 01 October 2025

For more information and to apply visit https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/phd-in-chemistry-new-approaches-to-degradable-water-soluble-polymers/?p181931

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