PhD Studentships and Research Jobs at University of Nottingham

Title: PhD Studentship: Pectin Supplementation to Reduce Gut and Systemic Inflammation and Improve Liver, Muscle, and Gastrointestinal Outcomes

Location: UK Other

Closing Date: 30.04.2024

Overview: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), affecting a quarter of the global population, is a significant risk factor for cirrhosis, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases. Advanced stages of NAFLD often lead to liver fibrosis and inflammation, contributing to muscle wasting and cachexia due to systemic inflammation and altered protein metabolism.

This PhD project at the School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, aims to investigate the efficacy of pectin supplementation on gut permeability, liver and systemic inflammation, and muscle mass in individuals with NAFLD. Additionally, the project will explore the benefits of pectin supplementation in individuals awaiting colorectal surgery, targeting reduced gut permeability and systemic inflammation.

Research Methodology: The project will employ magnetic resonance imaging to assess outcomes, alongside circulating biomarkers and functional assessments. It will leverage the multidisciplinary environment and expertise available within the gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal Nottingham BRC themes.

Funding: The three-year studentship covers tuition fees and a tax-free stipend. Open to domestic students only due to funding requirements.

Supervisors:

• Prof. Guru Aithal, Professor of Hepatology
• Dr. Jane Grove, Assistant Professor in Translational Sciences
• Dr. Katie Rollins, Associate Professor in Colorectal Surgery
• Prof. Ana Valdes, Professor in Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology

Application Details: Submit the following to Joe.Bass@nottingham.ac.uk:

• Cover Letter (outlining research interests and motivation)
• Curriculum Vitae (detailing academic background, research experience, and skills)
• Please include the PhD title in the email subject.

Entry Requirements:

• Minimum 2.1 Honours degree in Pharmacy, Biomedical Engineering, Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, or related field.

Start Date: July 2024

This studentship provides a unique opportunity to develop advanced biomedical skills and gain hands-on experience in clinical research, contributing to the understanding and potential treatment strategies for NAFLD and related conditions.

Title: PhD Studentship: Ultra-thin Opto-acoustic Fibre Optic Probe for Cancer Characterisation

Location: UK Other

Closing Date: 01.06.2024

Project Overview:

This PhD project aims to develop an innovative, ultra-thin, bio-compatible fibre optic ultrasound instrument, along with a predictive model for the mechanical properties of soft matter. This cutting-edge device, utilizing the interaction between acoustic interface waves and the sample, will provide valuable mechanical property information across various length scales, from individual cells to tissue. Designed to be compatible with fibre optic delivery, this project will initially focus on in vitro experiments on micro-tumours, setting the stage for addressing unmet clinical needs.

What We Offer:

• A world-class, multidisciplinary research environment encompassing fields such as optics, ultrasonics, cell imaging, manufacturing, and AI.
• A supportive culture committed to researcher development, in line with the Researcher Development Concordat.
• Opportunities to acquire new skills in optics, ultrasonics, bio-imaging, instrumentation, coding, and AI.
• The potential to produce high-quality publications.
• Travel opportunities for international collaboration and conference attendance.
• 3.5 years of funding, covering both fees and stipend for candidates with home fee status (UK, Ireland, and some UK-resident EU nationals).

Vision:

Ultrasound technology offers unique insights into the mechanical state of materials, inaccessible through other means. It plays a crucial role in various global challenges, from developing new materials for the aerospace and transport sectors to imaging biological cells and tissue properties.

Motivation:

Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality, with the best patient outcomes linked to early detection and treatment. A method to assess cellular properties, distinguishing tumour cells from healthy ones, would significantly enhance early cancer detection. This project is motivated by the critical differences in elasticity between cancerous and healthy cells and the emerging importance of mechanical properties as disease indicators. Advances in fibre optics and thin film manufacturing now make the development of a compact ultrasound probe feasible, opening new avenues for in-vivo biopsy techniques.

Candidate Profile:

• A 1st or 2.1 honours undergraduate or master’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related field (or nearing graduation).
• A passion for hands-on experimental work.
• Proficiency in coding (Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or similar).
• Excellent communication skills.
• The ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should contact Dr. Richard Smith at Richard.j.smith@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note, the award of the fully funded PhD is contingent upon the candidate meeting the Faculty of Engineering’s quality standards.

This PhD studentship represents a unique opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research at the intersection of engineering and medical science, contributing to the advancement of cancer detection and characterisation technologies.

Title: PhD Studentship: Life Cycle and Techno-economic Assessment of Energy Storage Technologies

Location: UK Other

Closing Date: 01.05.2024

Project Aim: This project aims to conduct a comprehensive life cycle and techno-economic assessment of various thermochemical energy storage technologies (TCES) in the context of harnessing industrial waste heat. With the UK’s industry and power generation sectors producing waste heat exceeding the country’s total annual electricity demand by approximately 30%, and industrial waste heat alone accounting for about one-sixth of annual industrial energy use, the efficient utilization of all possible waste heat sources is crucial. This research will focus on the potential of TCES technologies, known for their stability and efficiency in energy storage, by employing whole lifecycle environmental assessment and techno-economic assessment methodologies.

Entry Requirements: Applicants should be enthusiastic graduates with a 1st class degree in Engineering, Architectural Environment Engineering, or a relevant discipline, obtained at an integrated Master’s level or equivalent. A relevant MSc degree may also be considered, and in exceptional cases, a 2:1 degree may be accepted. The studentship is set to start in October 2024.

Enquiries: For more information about the project and funding, please contact Dr. Serik Tokbolat via email at serik.tokbolat@nottingham.ac.uk.

Application Deadline: Applications are encouraged as soon as possible, as the position will be filled once a suitable candidate is found.

Funding Notes: This 36-month programme offers funding options covering either full home (UK) studentship or full international fees, making it an excellent opportunity for candidates looking to contribute to the field of energy storage technologies through a focus on sustainable and economic practices.

This PhD studentship offers a unique chance to delve into the critical area of energy sustainability, focusing on the efficient use of waste heat through advanced thermochemical energy storage technologies. Candidates will work within a supportive and multidisciplinary research environment, gaining invaluable experience and skills in environmental assessment and economic analysis.

Title: Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Salary: £263,673 to £371,012 Within the range RMB 263,673 – RMB 371,012 per annum (pro rata)

Deadline: 22.02.2024

Summary:

The role entails independent planning and conducting of research using recognized methods within the specified research area. This includes writing and publishing research in high-quality journals (CAS Q1), presenting at national and international conferences, and successfully achieving research outputs. They are also responsible for identifying opportunities, writing bids for research grants, and preparing proposals for funding or accreditation. Additionally, the role involves managing research resources, facilities, and supervising student projects and fieldwork.

Requirements

• Educational Background: Possession of a PhD in geotechnical engineering, construction materials, or a related discipline, along with equivalent professional qualifications and research experience.
• Language Skills: Exceptional oral and written proficiency in English and Chinese, capable of communicating complex information clearly.
• Analytical Skills: High analytical ability for data analysis, interpreting reports, evaluating texts, and generating new insights.
• Research Skills: Creativity in applying relevant research approaches, models, techniques, and methods.
• Resource Management: Competence in assessing and organizing resources and deploying them effectively.
• Collaboration and Relationship Building: Capacity to build relationships and collaborate with internal and external parties.
• Practical Experience: Practical application experience of specialist skills, approaches, and techniques required for the role.
• Methodological Expertise: Experience in employing research methodologies and techniques within the area of specialization.

Learn More and Apply.