Nanomechanics of Hybrid Lipid-biopolymer Membranes

The structural hierarchy of biomembranes plays an important role in their mechanical properties, underlying their key functions as novel food and pharmaceutical materials. In this PhD project, you will explore the mechanics of biomimetic lipid-polymer hybrid nanofibre membranes. The nanofibers' morphology will be controlled by electrospinning parameters and in the presence of different lyotropic liquid crystalline (LLC) phases. You will apply in-operando X-ray scattering techniques e.g. SAXS/WAXS and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to understand the nanomechanical properties of hybrid membranes in relation to fabrication parameters.<br /> This is an interdisciplinary research project that offers an excellent opportunity to work at the intersection of soft matter design and the application of state-of-the-art structure characterisation tools. You will graduate with three key areas of expertise: i) electrospinning as a ubiquitous biopolymer processing technique ii) X-ray scattering for nanostructural analysis, iii) lipid self-assembly and interface sciences. This project would suit a graduate with a strong background in chemical, physical sciences, material science, food science and mechanical engineering.

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University&#39;s website</a>. Please state clearly in the research information section&nbsp;that the research degree you wish to be considered for is&nbsp;<strong>Nanomechanics of Hybrid Lipid-biopolymer Membranes</strong>&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/faculty/staff/9450/dr-amin-sadeghpour">Dr Amin Sadeghpour</a></strong> as your proposed supervisor.</p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University&#39;s minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study in the School of Food Science and Nutrition is an IELTS of 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.

<p><strong>Self-funding students are welcome to apply.</strong></p> <p><a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/60-alumni-bursary">Alumni Bursary</a> is available to self-funding graduates of the University of Leeds.</p>

<p>For further information about the project and/or expression of your interest on this project, please contact <a href="mailto:a.sadeghpour@leeds.ac.uk">Dr Amin Sadeghpour</a>.</p> <p>For further information about how to apply please contact the Faculty of Environment PGR Admissions team: ENV-PGR@leeds.ac.uk</p>