PhD Global Excellence and Mobility Scholarship (GEMS 2026). Research Project: Nano-enabled detection and risk communication of microplastics in ASEAN food chains
Not stated
- Funding
- Competition Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
- Application deadline
- 30 October 2026
About the project
About the Project Microplastics are increasingly found in the food chain, with Malaysia and Indonesia among the most impacted due to high plastic consumption. This project will develop a nano-enabled detection system using functionalised nanomaterials for rapid, sensitive and selective identification of microplastics in food. This will involve surface functionalisation of nanomaterials with specific recognition elements, such as molecularly imprinted polymers or hydrophobic dyes, to enhance selectivity for targeted plastic types. The first phase focuses on sensor design, synthesis and validation, followed by application to real-world samples from Malaysia and Indonesia. The second phase will leverage these findings to design and test culturally tailored public risk communication strategies across ASEAN, using digital media analytics and behavioural science to drive awareness and preventive action. This project will deliver practical tools for microplastic detection in the ASEAN food chain; build public awareness campaigns grounded in scientific evidence and inform cross-border policy frameworks. This project is part of Monash University Malaysia’s Graduate Research Thematic Cluster, Integrated Strategies in Microplastics Research We seek a motivated candidate with a background in nanotechnology, materials science, analytical chemistry, environmental science, or food science. Experience in nanomaterial synthesis, sensor development, or microplastic detection will be an advantage. The ideal applicant will demonstrate strong analytical skills, scientific curiosity, and the ability to work collaboratively across disciplines. An interest in sustainability, food safety, and public health communication within the ASEAN context is highly desirable. For enquiries, please contact Dr Athirah Bakhtiar For more information about this project, please visit our GEMS website. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ How to Apply It is suggested that you first contact the main supervisor and provide them with your academic background and achievements to determine whether you are a 'fit' for this research topic. If you feel you are a good fit, submit your application here and ensure that you enter the same GEMS research topic as advertised on this webpage. To review the application requirements, please refer to our application submission guide . When submitting your application, please select the Global Excellence and Mobility Scholarship (GEMS). More information about GEMS is available here .