PhD Vacancy - Predicting and Improving the Quality of Recycled Plastics Using Advanced Metrology

29 Apr 2025
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Manchester, United Kingdom
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Chemical and Biological Sciences
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PhD

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PhD Vacancy - Predicting and Improving the Quality of Recycled Plastics Using Advanced Metrology

About the Role
The transition to a circular economy requires innovative solutions to improve the quality and consistency of recycled plastics, which are vital for reducing waste and environmental impact. Recycled plastics often suffer from high variability, making it challenging for industry to predict and optimise their performance for specific applications. This PhD project seeks to address these challenges by combining advanced metrology, data science, and machine learning to develop predictive models and new standards for recycled plastics. Based at the University of Manchester, in collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and Waters-TA Instruments, this project will investigate key measurement techniques, such as thermal analysis, rheology, and mechanical testing, to characterise the properties of post-consumer recyclates.

The project will apply cutting-edge data science techniques, including principal component analysis and machine learning, to handle multivariate datasets and enhance predictive accuracy. As part of the project, the successful candidate will receive training in advanced experimental techniques and data analysis, collaborate with world-leading experts in materials science and metrology, and contribute to sustainable solutions for the plastics industry. This includes access to professional development opportunities, industry skills training and cohort events offered through the Postgraduate Institute for Measurement Science (PGI) at NPL. The project will also include placements at NPL and Waters-TA Instruments, with opportunities to work in their state-of-the-art facilities.
About You
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: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/predicting-and-improving-the-quality-of-recycled-plastics-using-advanced-metrology-and-data-science/?p180614
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.