At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop next-gen hair repair products using innovative chemistry techniques.
- Company: Collaborate with Procter & Gamble and Newcastle University on cutting-edge research.
- Benefits: 100% home fees covered and a tax-free annual living allowance of £21,805.
- Other info: Engage in an interdisciplinary project with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the booming £100 billion hair care market.
- Qualifications: Must have or expect a minimum 2:1 MChem in chemistry or related field.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Award summary: 100% home fees covered, and a minimum tax‑free annual living allowance of £21,805 (subject to minor change).
Overview: Human hair possesses a complex, hierarchical structure that is readily damaged during routine styling treatments involving heat, chemical processing, and mechanical stress. The global hair care market is a highly innovative and dynamic sector, estimated at more than £100 billion and growing at over 6% every year. This project aims to deliver a step‑change in hair care technology by developing new strategies to form covalent bonds within hair fibres, moving beyond current approaches that rely primarily on hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. While these weaker interactions can provide temporary repair, they are inherently fragile and often lost after repeated washing. Drawing inspiration from contemporary organic chemistry, this project will explore methods to permanently restore structural integrity by covalently repairing damaged bonds within hair. The project will investigate chemistries for the selective covalent modification of the hair surface, enabling durable repair and functional enhancement. A key focus will be the development of reactions that are not only effective, but also safe, non‑toxic, and fully compatible with existing hair care routines. This interdisciplinary project will appeal to candidates interested in applying fundamental chemistry to real‑world challenges. The student will benefit from close collaboration with scientists at Procter & Gamble Hair Care in Cincinnati.
Number of awards: 1
Start date: 21st September 2026
Award duration: 3 Years
Sponsor: Procter & Gamble
Supervisors: Prof David A Fulton (Newcastle University), Dr Sonja Knowles (Procter & Gamble)
Eligibility criteria: Home applicants are welcome to apply and if successful will receive a full studentship. You must have, or expect to gain, a minimum A 2:1 MChem, or international equivalent, in chemistry or a related subject. We will also consider applicants on an individual basis with BSc qualifications if they have additional relevant experience.
How to apply: You must apply through the University’s Apply to Newcastle Portal. Once registered select ‘Create a Postgraduate Application’. Use ‘Course Search’ to identify your programme of study: Search for the ‘Course Title’ using the programme code: 8100F. Select ‘PhD Chemistry (full time)’ as the programme of study. You will then need to provide the following information in the ‘Further Details’ section: A ‘Personal Statement’ (this is a mandatory field) – upload a document or write a statement directly in the application form. The studentship code SNES309a in the ‘Studentship/Partnership Reference’ field. Attach a covering letter and CV. The covering letter must state the title of the studentship, quote reference code SNES309a and state how your interests and experience relate to the project. Attach degree transcripts and certificates and, if English is not your first language, a copy of your English language qualifications.
Contact details: For informal enquiries and further details, contact.
PhD Studentship - Next-Generation Hair Repair Products employer: Newcastle University
Newcastle University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of immuno-oncology research. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from numerous growth opportunities while contributing to impactful projects in a supportive team atmosphere. Located in a vibrant city, the university provides a unique chance to engage with cutting-edge research and make meaningful contributions to healthcare advancements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship - Next-Generation Hair Repair Products
✨Dive into Lab Events
Keep an eye out for chemistry-focused seminars, workshops, and network events. These are prime opportunities to meet industry professionals, learn about the latest developments, and potentially get your foot in the door at places like Newcastle University.
✨Get Involved with Local Uni Societies
Join chemistry societies or clubs at your university. They're not just great for building your knowledge; they often have connections to local companies that might be looking for trainees, including spots at Newcastle University.
✨Leverage Internships Directly
For a trainee position, reaching out for internships could open doors. Don't hesitate to contact companies directly, even if they don't have openings advertised. Show them your enthusiasm for the field and inquire about potential internship opportunities.
✨Showcase Your Passion Online
Consider starting a blog or social media accounts dedicated to chemistry topics that interest you. This can display your passion and expertise. Make sure to link this to your profile when you apply for trainee roles at places like Newcastle University.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship - Next-Generation Hair Repair Products
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Labs!:As a trainee in chemistry, it's vital to highlight any laboratory experience you've had. Make sure your CV lists relevant coursework, lab techniques, and any projects you've undertaken that showcase your hands-on skills. This will give us a better sense of your practical abilities, which is super important in this field!
Highlight Your Passion for Science:In your cover letter, let us feel your enthusiasm for chemistry! Talk about why you chose this field and any specific areas of interest. Whether it’s organic chemistry, analytical techniques, or environmental chemistry, showing your passion can set you apart from the competition.
Include Relevant Coursework:Make sure to mention any relevant coursework or certifications that align with our needs at Newcastle University. If you’ve taken particular modules in biochemistry or physical chemistry, shout about them! This helps us see how we can nurture your training from the start.
Keep It Simple and Straightforward:Since this is a trainee role, we’re not expecting a long-winded application. Keep your CV concise and make your cover letter clear and to the point. Highlight your educational background and any specific relevant experiences without fluff. We want to see your potential!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle University
✨Know Your Chemistry Basics
Make sure you’re super comfortable with the fundamental concepts of chemistry. We’re talking about chemical reactions, lab techniques, and safety protocols. The interviewer might throw some tricky questions your way, so brush up on these areas to show you’re ready to dive in!
✨Showcase Your Lab Skills
If you've got any hands-on experience in a lab, don’t hold back! Talk about specific techniques or experiments you've conducted. Whether it's titrations or chromatography, let’s bring those lab experiences to the forefront so we can impress Newcastle University with our practical know-how!
✨Be Ready for Team Dynamics
In a chemistry role, collaboration is key. Expect questions about how you work on projects with others. Have a few anecdotes ready about group projects or lab partnerships where you played a crucial role. We want to demonstrate our ability to contribute positively to the team at Newcastle University!
✨Your Passion for Chemistry Matters
As this is a trainee position, the interviewers will be keen to see your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Be prepared to discuss why you want to start a career in chemistry and what excites you about the field. This is our chance to show that passion goes a long way in shaping our future at Newcastle University!
