PhD Position in Chemical Engineering

Institution: University of Nottingham – Faculty of Engineering, Optics and Photonics Research Group
Location: UK
Reference: ENG308
Closing Date: Open until filled

Project Overview

This PhD aims to image the centre of a live, intact plant root for the first time using cutting-edge optical microscopy and AI-informed wavefront correction techniques.

• Overcomes the long-standing problem of light distortion and scattering in plant roots.

• Enables visualization of dynamic cellular processes critical for:

  • Plant resilience to drought, salinity, and waterlogging

  • Responses to fungal infections

  • Nanoparticle uptake and other physiological studies

• Combines hands-on optics experimentation, AI and machine learning, and plant biology.

• Multidisciplinary collaboration across Engineering, Computer Science, and Biosciences.

Candidate Profile

• Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and resourceful team player.

• 1st or 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant field:

  • Physics

  • Electrical/Electronic Engineering

  • Computer Science

  • Biosciences

• Desirable skills: understanding of optics, machine learning, or coding (Python/MATLAB/etc.).

• Interest in multidisciplinary research and hands-on experimentation.

Supervision

• Amanda Wright – Optics and Photonics Research Group

• Mike Somekh – Optics and Photonics Research Group

• Mike Pound – Computer Vision, Computer Science

• Darren Wells – Plant and Crop Biophysics, School of Biosciences

Funding & Environment

• Funding sought after candidate selection (home tuition + UKRI stipend).

• Access to state-of-the-art optical microscopes and facilities in Engineering and Biosciences.

• Training through the Researcher Academy, including paper writing, networking, and career development.

• Inclusive, supportive research environment with strong community and industrial links.

Contact: Amanda Wright to submit CV and supporting statement.

In your application, please refer to Polytechnicpositions.com