Summary:
This PhD project aims to tackle plastic pollution by developing engineered enzymes capable of breaking down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into reusable building blocks. The research will focus on enzyme engineering and its industrial applications in creating a circular plastics economy.
PhD Studentship: Innovate Plastic Recycling with AI-Driven Enzyme Engineering, Newcastle University, UK
Designation:
PhD Studentship
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Number of Awards | 1 |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Award Duration | 4 years |
| Sponsor | NERC |
| Stipend | £31,805 per year (for eligible Home fee status students) |
Research Area:
- Engineering biology
- Enzyme engineering
- Sustainability
Location:
Newcastle University, UK
Eligibility/Qualification:
- MSc degree or equivalent in relevant subjects (Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Engineering Biology).
- Strong analytical skills, enthusiasm for research, and excellent verbal/written communication skills.
- For non-native English speakers, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub-skills is required.
Job Description:
The successful candidate will:
- Discover, characterize, and improve PET-degrading enzymes.
- Design and test enzyme variants and develop biochemical assays.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team in AI-driven discovery and laboratory automation.
- Engage in real-world impact and environmental challenges through the NERC-funded EngBio4Env Doctoral Focal Award programme.
How to Apply:
- Apply via the Newcastle Portal.
- Create a Postgraduate Application and search for the programme using the course code: 8050F.
- In the ‘Further Questions’ section, upload a mandatory personal statement and use the code COMP2181 in the ‘Studentship/Partnership Reference’.
- Write the research proposal using the project title.
Last Date to Apply:
20 July 2026
This structured approach provides clear and concise information for potential applicants interested in this scholarship opportunity at Newcastle University.
