Mechanical and Tribological Interactions at the Skin–Deodorant Interface

About the Project

This MSc by Research project will investigate the fundamental mechanical and tribological interactions occurring at the skin–deodorant interface. The work forms part of a collaborative programme between the University of Birmingham and Unilever, aimed at developing advanced methodologies for understanding product–skin interactions and designing novel surrogate skin materials for product testing.

The project will employ cutting-edge experimental techniques including micro-biotribometry, indentation mechanics, and in-situ imaging to characterise friction, adhesion, and transfer film formation during deodorant application. Outcomes will inform the development of validated skin surrogate materials and new tribometry methods, providing mechanistic insight into product performance.

The appointed researcher will:

• Conduct experimental mechanical and tribological testing of skin and surrogate substrates under controlled conditions.
• Apply advanced (bio)imaging and analysis techniques to study skin health and product transfer film formation in real time.
• Analyse data using contact mechanics models (Hertzian, JKR, viscoelastic, Archard, CZM frameworks) to establish mechanistic relationships between skin properties, friction, and product transfer.
• Contribute to the design and development of bespoke tribometry instrumentation.
• Collaborate closely with industrial partners at Unilever to ensure research outcomes are aligned with product development needs.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and manuscripts for dissemination to both academic and industrial stakeholders.

Candidate Requirements

Essential:

• A 2:1 or above undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Strong interest in tribology, soft matter mechanics, or biomaterials.
• Practical experience with laboratory-based experimental work.
• Good data analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary research team.

Desirable:

• Experience with tribological testing, indentation, or rheology.
• Knowledge of contact mechanics and material modelling.
• Familiarity with imaging and surface characterisation methods.
• Interest in translational research with industrial applications.

Funding Notes

The position will be fully funded (contract dependant) by Unilever as part of a new UoB-Unilever research collaboration.

The MSc by Research provides the opportunity to gain advanced training in tribology, biomaterials, and industrial product development, with strong potential for progression to a PhD.