About the Project
Supervisors: Dr Xi Yu, Dr Xuan Li
This project will investigate how ultrasound can produce more uniform, stable and high-quality granular pharmaceutical powders while reducing energy use. Combining experimental research, advanced particle characterisation and process modelling, the work will enable more efficient, scalable drug manufacturing.
The pharmaceutical industry increasingly requires manufacturing technologies that can deliver powders with tightly controlled particle size, morphology, flowability and dissolution performance, while maintaining product stability and reducing energy consumption. Conventional spray drying, particularly using two-fluid nozzles, can provide limited control over droplet size and particle characteristics and may expose heat-sensitive pharmaceutical materials to undesirable thermal and shear stresses.
This project will develop an innovative spray drying system incorporating ultrasonic atomisation to produce granular pharmaceutical powders with improved and more consistent properties. Ultrasonic atomisation uses high-frequency sound waves to generate fine droplets with controlled size, offering a promising route to improved atomisation efficiency, reduced shear and lower energy consumption. The research will establish the relationships between key processing parameters, including ultrasonic frequency, feed concentration, drying temperature and airflow rate, and the resulting particle characteristics, including size, morphology, density, flowability, compressibility and dissolution behaviour.
The project will combine experimental investigation, process optimisation and modelling to develop a validated understanding of the mechanisms governing ultrasonic atomisation and spray drying. Advanced characterisation techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser diffraction, will be used to evaluate particle properties and support process–structure–performance relationships.
Expected outcomes include an optimised and scalable ultrasonic spray drying process, a validated process model, mechanistic understanding of ultrasound-assisted atomisation and prototype granular pharmaceutical formulations. The research will provide valuable training in pharmaceutical processing, particle engineering, experimental design, advanced characterisation and process modelling, while addressing an important industrial challenge in the manufacture of high-quality pharmaceutical powders and drug delivery systems.
Entry requirements
A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in one of the following:
- chemical engineering
- pharmaceutical engineering
- pharmacy
- chemistry
- materials science
- mechanical engineering
- a closely related discipline
Essential skills:
- strong interest in pharmaceutical manufacturing, particle engineering, spray drying, atomisation, or related process technologies
- good analytical and problem-solving skills, with an ability to undertake experimental research and interpret scientific data
Fees and funding
We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.
Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.
Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.
Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.
How to apply
Apply now
You need to:
- choose programme type (Research), 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- select Full time or Part time
- search for programme PhD Chemical Engineering (6939)
- add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application
Applications should include:
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 academic references
- degree transcripts and certificates to date
- English language qualification (if applicable)
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
If you have a general question, [contact details available in the full listing].
Project leader
For an initial conversation, [contact details available in the full listing].
The School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
