At a Glance
- Tasks: Research and develop innovative coatings to protect porous construction materials from moisture and mould.
- Company: Join a leading research team at the University of Exeter focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Tuition fees covered plus a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per year for 3.5 years.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment at the beautiful Streatham Campus in Exeter.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on building health and sustainability with cutting-edge materials research.
- Qualifications: A passion for materials science and a strong academic background in relevant fields.
The predicted salary is between 21805 - 21805 £ per year.
Porous construction materials, such as concrete, brick, or wood, are widely utilised in built environments due to their structural strength, durability, and thermal mass.
However, their susceptibility to water ingress can lead to issues such as surface degradation, internal cracking, frost damage, and biological colonisation.
Prolonged exposure to moisture makes these materials particularly vulnerable to mould growth, which accelerates structural decay, compromises indoor air quality, and poses significant health risks to building occupants.
Moisture exposure to outdoor surfaces can also cause aesthetic damage, which gradually reduces the overall performance of the building and leads to significant maintenance and restoration costs.
While traditional surface treatments are often applied, many conventional formulations rely on harmful chemicals, such as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which raise environmental and regulatory concerns.
As the construction sector increasingly prioritises sustainability, occupant health, and long-term durability, there is an urgent need for innovative, non-toxic protective coatings capable of preserving porous materials in both interior and exterior applications.
The research project aims to explore the integration of 2D materials, such as graphene and post-graphene structures, into PFAS-free formulations to develop multifunctional coatings for porous construction materials that provide hydrophobicity, breathability and anti-mould properties.
The project will involve synthesis and functionalisation of 2D materials, development and optimisation of coating formulations & application methods, and comprehensive performance tests, including water contact angle measurements, breathability tests, absorption tests, biological resistance assays, and environmental chamber tests.
This comprehensive testing will evaluate the coatings' effectiveness in improving moisture resistance, preventing mould growth, and enhancing the durability of porous materials in both indoor and outdoor environments.
This position is eligible for Home students and it will cover tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of £21,805 per year for 3.5 years full-time.
Students will be based at the Streatham Campus in Exeter.
- UK tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend of at least £21,805 per year
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PhD Studentship: Materials-reinforced multifunctional coatings for built environments employer: University of Exeter
The University of Exeter is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With flexible working opportunities, generous annual leave, and a commitment to diversity and social justice, staff can thrive while contributing to meaningful initiatives that enhance student employability. Located in Exeter, this role provides a unique chance to engage with a diverse community and make a tangible impact on the future of underrepresented students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Materials-reinforced multifunctional coatings for built environments
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at University of Exeter, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like University of Exeter. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Materials-reinforced multifunctional coatings for built environments
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at University of Exeter. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at University of Exeter. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Exeter
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at University of Exeter. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at University of Exeter to drive research projects forward.
