PhD Studentship: Clean and safe: Developing antimicrobial formulations for food preservation and hygiene

Overview

Foodborne pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes present major challenges in the seafood industry because they survive at refrigeration temperatures and form resilient biofilms on processing equipment. This PhD studentship focuses on designing and optimizing a commercial product that uses natural, food-safe ingredients to create a multipurpose antimicrobial disinfectant for seafood processing plants. The project involves incorporating this disinfectant into ice blocks and flakes to manage microbial growth during storage and shipping, contributing to reduced food spoilage, waste, and health risks.

Who can apply

This funding opportunity is open to UK applicants. Candidates must hold a 2:1 Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as biological sciences, microbiology, chemistry, biotechnology, biochemistry, or food science.

What you get

The successful candidate receives funding covering home tuition fees and an annual stipend for three years, part of a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. The institutional PhD stipend rate is 21,805 British pounds per annum and will be subject to any agreed inflationary uplift for the 2027/28 academic year. Students also gain access to research training across laboratories at the University of East Anglia and the Quadram Institute, alongside professional development and research translation experiences.

Requirements

Applicants must be motivated and self-starting individuals with an academic background in microbiology, applied chemistry, or a related discipline. The mode of study is full-time, and the work arrangement is on-site.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 24 February 2027. The program start date is 1 October 2027.