Development of Biocompatible Polypeptide/Surfactant Films with Tuneable 3D Structures using Advanced Characterisation Techniques

About the Project

Setup

This exciting multidisciplinary project offers a unique opportunity to combine fundamental scientific research using state-of-the-art experimental techniques with applied innovation. The student will spend 2 years at the University of Manchester, the awarding body, followed by 1.5 years at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source in Oxfordshire, and will be supported by supervisors on both sites.

Background

P/S films: Polyelectrolyte/surfactant (P/S) mixtures have been studied extensively because of their use in everyday life products as well as biomedical applications. A few years ago, we invented a new methodology to create spread films by dispensing aliquots of nanostructured P/S aggregates onto the surface of pure water. The spread films are more substantial than layers formed by adsorption, and there is no requirement for the use of organic carrier solvent, which translate to exciting economic and environmental potential. We went on to trigger formation of 3D structures during compression of spread films where we applied state-of-the-art techniques at national and international research facilities.

PP/S films: Recently, we extended our novel methodology to polypeptide/surfactant (PP/S) films using biocompatible materials that have greater scope for biomedical use. We have demonstrated precise control of 3D structures in poly-l-lysine (PLL)/sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) films. Neutron reflectometry (NR) determined that extended structures form during film compression where the structure is a surfactant monolayer, bound polypeptide, and then mixed micelles. There can be a second micelle layer at high film compression. Such precise control of 3D film structures at a fluid interface is unprecedented.

Latest work: An intriguing discovery in this work is that the coverage of the 3D structures varies strongly according to the sample deuteration. Our latest focus has been to show how differences in secondary structures of PP/S mixtures translate to distinct film properties involving 3D structures. We believe that different conformations of poly-(L-arginine) (PLA; α-helix) and PLL (β-sheet) when interacting with SDS, and more H-bonds in the arginine/sulfate interaction, may help us to understand the influence of specific amino acid interactions on PP/S film properties. More research is needed on the development of these films.

Summary

• Fully funded 3.5-year studentship starting in October 2026
• Grant includes stipend, tuition fees for ’home’ students, and travel costs.
• Attractive opportunities to present findings at national and international conferences.
• Access to world-class facilities and networking with experts in neutron and interfaces research.

Objectives

Work Package 1: Lab measurements using laser reflection techniques such as ellipsometry will start with an evaluation of how different bulk secondary structures in PP/S mixtures can be exploited to tune spread film properties where 3D structures are formed. Synthetic and natural polypeptides will be examined, including short, designed series exploiting specific amino acid interactions. Actinomycin-D as a model natural polypeptide that is used in melanoma chemotherapy can be used as a proxy for skin contact applications. Use of ionisable lipids liked those used in the covid-19 vaccines can also be examined. Our discovery on the development of methodology to form novel films with potential economic and environment benefits represents exciting potential for the development of biomedical coatings of relevance to tissue engineering and wound dressings. It is expected that findings will be disseminated to the neutron and interfaces communities at conferences and to the public in tailored engagement activities.

Work Package 2: Academic and industrial use of Langmuir troughs on the INTER neutron reflectometer at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (ISIS) requires the simultaneous use of laser techniques with neutron reflectivity measurements to produce the highest impact science. A unique new trough box capable of simultaneous Brewster angle microscopy will be designed, constructed, optimised and showcased. The technical developments will be conducted in collaboration with the University of Manchester at Harwell (UoMaH) whose designers will support the student while on the Harwell site where ISIS is situated. In conducting part of the research at a large research facility, the student will have scope for valuable networking and opportunities and to contribute to experiments by facility users, in turn enriching their CV and future career prospects.

Work Package 3: Isotope effects at soft matter interfaces have been a longstanding enigma for the neutron reflectivity community. An understanding of their implications on the reflectivity data, however, requires development. This project is an opportunity to make a breakthrough in understanding by exploiting the spread PP/S films and announce a new data modelling framework. Full training in the modelling will be provided.

Who should apply?

We are seeking a highly motivated and curious individual with a background in physical chemistry, biophysics, materials science, or a related physical discipline. Prior experience with soft matter systems, interfacial characterisation, advanced techniques and/or computational modelling is advantageous but not essential.

Applicants are expected to hold (or about to obtain) a minimum upper second class undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, materials science or pharmacy. Experience in surface science and/or practical experimental measurements is desirable.

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Interested candidates must first make contact with the Primary Supervisor prior to submitting a formal application, to discuss their interest and suitability for the project.

On the online application form select PhD Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI | Postgraduate Research | Biology, Medicine and Health | University of Manchester)

Funding Notes

Funding by FBMH and the ISIS Neutron & Muon Source (50/50). Studentship funding is for a duration of 3.5 years to commence in September 2026 and covers UK tuition fees and a UKRI stipend (UKRI rate).