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- Tasks: Conduct research on recycled plastics using advanced metrology and data science techniques.
- Company: Join the University of Manchester, collaborating with NPL and Waters-TA Instruments.
- Benefits: Gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, professional development, and industry skills training.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the circular economy while developing cutting-edge research skills.
- Qualifications: Must have a 2.1 honours degree or master's in a relevant science or engineering discipline.
- Other info: Opportunities for placements in the UK and USA, plus training in computational tools.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Recycled plastics are essential to achieving circular economy goals, but they often suffer from batch-to-batch variability, making it difficult for industry to predict and control product performance. This PhD project will tackle that challenge by applying advanced polymer characterisation techniques to better understand and quantify the quality of recycled materials, particularly polyolefins.
Based at the University of Manchester and delivered in collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and Waters-TA Instruments, this interdisciplinary project will focus on developing robust, practical tools to assess and predict recyclate quality. The work will involve thermal analysis (e.g. DSC, TGA), rheology, mechanical testing, and molecular characterisation, with the goal of identifying property-performance relationships and generating datasets suitable for quality prediction.
A core part of the project will also involve exploring data-driven approaches, including principal component analysis and machine learning, to handle multivariate datasets. Prior experience in data science is not essential; the successful candidate will be supported through training in computational tools and statistical methods over the course of the project.
The project includes placements at NPL and Waters-TA Instruments, with opportunities to work in state-of-the-art facilities in Wilmslow (UK) and Delaware (USA).
Additionally, the successful candidate will gain access to professional development opportunities, industry skills training, and cohort events through the Postgraduate Institute for Measurement Science (PGI) at NPL.
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master\’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.Link to apply: Predicting and Improving the Quality of Recycled Plastics Using Advanced Metrology and Data Science at The University of Manchester on FindAPhD.com . #J-18808-Ljbffr
PhD Vacancy - Predicting and Improving the Quality of Recycled Plastics Using Advanced Metrology employer: National Physical Laboratory
Contact Detail:
National Physical Laboratory Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Vacancy - Predicting and Improving the Quality of Recycled Plastics Using Advanced Metrology
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in polymer characterisation techniques. Understanding methods like DSC, TGA, and rheology will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with professionals in the recycling and materials science sectors through networking events or online forums. This can provide insights into industry challenges and trends, making you a more informed candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your data analysis skills, especially in relation to machine learning and statistical methods. Even if you don't have prior experience, showing a willingness to learn these skills can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the University of Manchester, NPL, and Waters-TA Instruments to understand their missions and recent projects. Tailoring your discussions around their work during interviews can highlight your enthusiasm and fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Vacancy - Predicting and Improving the Quality of Recycled Plastics Using Advanced Metrology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the project's objectives and requirements. Familiarise yourself with terms like polymer characterisation, thermal analysis, and data-driven approaches, as these will be crucial in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant academic achievements, particularly in science or engineering disciplines. Include any experience with polymer materials, data analysis, or machine learning, even if it's from coursework or projects.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the project and how your background aligns with the goals of the PhD. Mention specific skills or experiences that relate to advanced metrology and data science.
Prepare for Potential Interviews: Be ready to discuss your understanding of the project and how you can contribute. Think about examples from your past work or studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work with complex datasets.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory
✨Understand the Project Scope
Make sure you thoroughly read the project description and understand the key objectives. Familiarise yourself with terms like 'polymer characterisation', 'thermal analysis', and 'data-driven approaches' as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Relevant Skills
Even if you don't have direct experience in data science, highlight any relevant skills or coursework that demonstrate your analytical abilities. Discuss any projects where you've used statistical methods or computational tools, as this will show your potential to learn and adapt.
✨Prepare Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the project, such as the specific techniques you'll be using or how the collaboration with NPL and Waters-TA Instruments will work. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the project aligns with your career goals.
✨Demonstrate Passion for Sustainability
Since the project focuses on recycled plastics and the circular economy, express your passion for sustainability and environmental issues. Share any personal experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that relate to this field, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
