Development and Evaluation of Fluconazole-Loaded Boronated Gellan Gum, Sodium Alginate and Polyvinylpyrrolidone-Based Buccal Films for the Potential Treatment of Oral Candidiasis
Not stated
- Funding
- Self-Funded PhD Students Only
- Application deadline
- 30 October 2026
About the project
About the Project About the Project This project investigates the development of fluconazole-loaded polymeric buccal films for the potential treatment of oral candidiasis. It focuses on creating and evaluating boronated gellan gum, sodium alginate and polyvinylpyrrolidone-based films that can deliver fluconazole directly to diseased buccal tissues. This knowledge could support the development of more patient-friendly, locally delivered treatments that improve drug bioavailability and treatment compliance. The student will prepare fluconazole-containing films using the solvent casting technique and assess their physical, chemical, drug release, antifungal, irritancy and stability properties. While fluconazole is an approved treatment for oral candidiasis, conventional oral and gel-based formulations can be limited by drug degradation, messiness and poor patient adherence. Full Application Deadline: 30/10/2026 Background Oral candidiasis is a fungal infection most commonly caused by Candida albicans . Although fluconazole is an approved treatment, orally delivered formulations can be affected by gastric acidic and hepatic enzymatic degradation, which may limit therapeutic success. Local delivery to the oral cavity offers a promising approach to improving drug bioavailability within diseased buccal tissues, while avoiding some of the limitations associated with conventional gels, such as messiness and poor patient compliance. This PhD project will develop and evaluate fluconazole-loaded boronated gellan gum, sodium alginate and polyvinylpyrrolidone-based buccal films. The researcher will assess drug-polymer compatibility, film properties, drug content, drug release, swelling behaviour, antifungal activity, mucosal irritancy and stability. Through this work, the project aims to contribute to the development of flexible, controlled-release buccal films that could offer a more acceptable and effective treatment option for oral candidiasis. Entry requirements At least 2:1 honours degree in a relevant field International students may also need to meet our English language requirements. Find out more about our entry requirements for international students. How to apply To apply for this opportunity, please complete the Expression of Interest form by 30 October 2026 . Following review, eligible candidates will be invited to submit a formal application and may then be shortlisted for interview.