Antimicrobial gels for biomedical applications (Ref: CG-AC-2523)

About the Project

Infection is one of the most serious complications following tissue injury and there is a vital need for novel treatments to improve patient outcomes. Non-drug-based antimicrobials have recently shown success in providing substantially improved outcomes by delivery of multi-modal forms of action that are difficult for microbes to develop resistance towards. This project will add a further line of defence by leveraging the specificity of enzymes in combination with biocompatible delivery gels, based on deep eutectic solvents, to form multifunctional, non-dehydrating healing gels.

As part of our team, you contribute to a multi-partner programme that will use highthroughput experimentation and/or computational analysis to understand how formulations can be varied to both continue to deliver antimicrobial response and ensure enzyme compatibility and functionality from a molecular level. You will use this learning to tailor materials for specific biomedical applications, including investigating the possibilities for 3D printing. As the project is multidisciplinary, training will be provided as required. You will also have a range of opportunities to gain valuable transferrable skills (including through our doctoral college), network with international and industry partners, and be well-set up for a role in either industry, data science or academia at the end of the programme.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
Professor Anna K Croft a.k.croft@lboro.ac.uk

Name of secondary supervisor:
Professor Aaron Elbourne https://www.rmit.edu.au/profiles/e/aaron-elbourne

Entry requirements:
Applicants should have at least, or expect to achieve, a 1st or good 2:1 MChem, MEng, or MSci or equivalent in an appropriate scientific discipline including chemistry, physics, computing, biology, or engineering, with a background in and passion for chemical sciences. You will join a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive research team at Loughborough led by Prof Anna K Croft, and opportunities for wider collaboration with internationally leading project partners in Australia and Europe.

English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: Yes - Bench fee value: 4000

Closing date of advert: 3rd August 2026

Start date: July 2026, October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years, Part-time 6 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)

How to apply:

• Stage 1: You are strongly advised to contact Professor Anna Croft in the first instance on a.k.croft@lboro.ac.uk with a CV, academic transcripts, a reference letter, and confirmation of funding source. Informal discussions are also welcome.
• Stage 2: Following discussion with Professor Anna Croft, applicants will be invited to make a formal application at online. Under programme name, select ‘Chemical Engineering’ and quote the advert reference number CG-AC-2523 in your application

Project search terms:
artificial intelligence, biochemistry, computational chemistry, data analysis, machine learning, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, antimicrobials, drug delivery, high-throughput, automation