[School of Natural Sciences PhD Scholarships] Rheological Diagnostics in Plastics Recycling

About the project

About the Project The transition to a circular plastics economy depends on our ability to manufacture reliable products from recycled materials. However, recycled polymers often exhibit significant variability in composition, contamination and processing history, making it difficult to predict their performance in demanding applications. This challenge limits the use of recycled plastics in sectors such as packaging, automotive and consumer goods. Building on recent research from the University of Manchester that has demonstrated the ability of rheological methods to identify degradation and contamination in polyolefin recyclates, this PhD project will develop a next-generation toolkit for the rapid assessment of recycled polymer quality. The project is delivered in partnership with The Centre for Industrial Rheology, linking real-world industrial problems to academic method development. The successful candidate will investigate how advanced rheological measurements can be used to create “fingerprints” of recycled plastics, linking processing history, molecular architecture and formulation variability to material performance. The project will combine rheology with complementary characterisation techniques including thermal analysis (DSC, TGA and oxidation induction testing), spectroscopy, microscopy and mechanical testing. Experimental studies on both model systems and commercially sourced post-consumer recyclates will be complemented by advanced data analysis and machine-learning approaches. The student will be based within the Sustainable Materials Innovation Hub and Henry Royce Institute at the University of Manchester, joining a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment spanning chemistry, materials science, engineering and sustainability. The project will be supervised by Professor Michael Shaver and Dr Dan Toolan, with additional support from expert technical staff and regular engagement with industrial partners. This studentship offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of polymer science, sustainability and industrial innovation. The successful candidate will receive training in advanced rheology, polymer characterisation, data analysis and industrial translation while contributing to solutions that enable higher-value recycling and support a more circular economy. Join us in developing the tools needed to transform recycled plastics from variable waste streams into reliable, high-performance materials. This project is expected to start in September 2027. Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply. How to apply: To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Natural Sciences Scholarships . If you don’t already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here . When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing your motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications . Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status. We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder. Eligibility : The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD such as Polymer Science, Chemistry, Materials Science or Chemical Engineering OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit (or international equivalent) in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD such as Polymer Science, Chemistry, Materials Science or Chemical Engineering. Previous experience in polymers, rheology, materials characterisation or sustainability is desirable. This project will remain open until filled. If your application is submitted by 1 st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18 th December 2026. If your application is submitted by 15 th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30 th March 2027. Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project. FSESoNS

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