ELIGIBILITY:

Theme of project: Soft Matter Physics, Food (Bio) Chemistry

Primary Host Institution: University of Leeds, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, School of Physics and Astronomy

Secondary Institution: University of Leeds, Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology

Industry Partner: Nestlé Research, Lausanne

They welcome applicants from a wide range of scientific backgrounds, including physics, physical and bio-chemistry, food science or related disciplines. The successful candidate will possess a minimum 2:1 Honours degree. An MPhys, MPhil, MEng, MSc, or relevant industrial experience would be an advantage. Experience in any of the following is helpful but not essential: soft matter physics, rheology, advanced microscopy and/or scattering techniques, carbohydrate chemistry, enzymology, and analytical chemistry. Due to the multidisciplinary nature of this programme, we do not expect the successful candidate to have knowledge and experience in all relevant areas; support and training will be provided by experienced staff. Curiosity, problem‑solving ability, and willingness to work across disciplines are essential.

English language requirements:: Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements.

How to apply: For more information and a link to the application form, please click here. Please return all completed forms to idla@reading.ac.uk The email subject line must read IDLA 2607 LLN Surname

Start date: January 2027

Duration of award: 48 months

BENEFIT:

Fully funded for four years by Food Consortium IDLA and Nestlé (Société des Produits Nestlé SA). The studentship covers UK tuition fees plus an enhanced annual UKRI stipend of £23,303 tax-free.

International students may apply but must cover the difference between home and international fees, which is ~£20k pa and increases annually.