PhD Automated microscale dissolution testing based on deep integration of scanning electrochemical/optical microscopies and machine vision
PhD @Loughborough University posted 2 days agoJob Description
Project details
Solubility, and dissolution dynamics, are key physico-chemical properties of active ingredient solid forms and are required across the chemical industry, however their determination remains a bottleneck in the screening process. This PhD project will address this through deep integration of scanning probe electrochemistry, optical microscopy and machine vision, to develop a system that can automatically assess solubility from arrays of micron-scale crystals deposited on a substrate.
This project will give the student training in a wide range of skills applicable to modern analytical chemistry, including high throughput experimentation, programming (e.g. in LabView, Matlab) and numerical modelling. They will be joining a thriving, inclusive Chemistry department with excellent facilities for microscale analysis and a strong tradition in analytical and electroanalytical chemistry.
Loughborough University has an applied research culture. In REF 2021, 94% of the work submitted was judged to be top-rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. We are a community based on mutual support and collaboration. Through our Doctoral College there are continual opportunities for building important research skills and networks among your peers and research academics.
94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Supervisors
Primary supervisor:Â Ian McPherson
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in a chemistry related degree.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry
UK fee
Fully funded Full-time degree per annum
International fee
Not applicable Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2025-26 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2025, January 2026, April 2026 and July 2026.
The studentship is for 3.5 years and includes a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus tuition fees at the UK rate. There is also a Research Training Support Grant of £2000. Due to funding restrictions, this is opportunity is only available to those eligible for UK fees.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Chemistry’ Please quote the advertised reference number: IM/CM/2025 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.
