Optimising Sustainable Bioplastic Supply Chains: Modelling Nanocellulose Production in the UK

About the Project

Plastics production and disposal generate around 1.8 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually, with an estimated 6.1 million tonnes entering oceans. This has driven growing demand for bioplastics as lower-emission, biodegradable alternatives. Yet, large-scale commercialisation of bioplastics faces environmental and economic challenges.

Current feedstocks pose trade-offs: edible crops such as maize and sugarcane raise food security concerns, while non-edible residues such as wood chips or fruit peels compete with animal feed and bioenergy uses. In addition, the biomass supply chain is complex and multi-actor, involving farms, pre-treatment facilities, and biorefineries. Feedstock choice, regional dynamics, and process side-streams all affect costs, energy use, and emissions.

This PhD project will develop advanced computational models to address these combinatorial decision challenges, with a specific focus on nanocellulose production in the UK. By exploring different feedstock options, supply chain configurations, and process pathways, the research aims to identify strategies that enhance both sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The outcomes will inform the design of robust, low-carbon bio-based supply chains that support the UK’s transition to a circular economy.

Eligibility

Essential:

1. A minimum of an upper second-class Honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or a related discipline
2. Strong quantitative and analytical skills
3. Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
4. Good written and verbal communication skills
5. Motivation to address sustainability and climate challenges in engineering

Desirable:

1. Experience with mathematical modelling, optimisation techniques, or supply chain analysis
2. Background knowledge in bio-based materials, biorefineries, or circular economy systems
3. Prior research experience (e.g., undergraduate or master’s project) relevant to engineering sustainability
4. Evidence of teamwork and collaboration in academic or professional settings

Funding

This 3.5-year PhD studentship is open to Home (UK) applicants. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26; subject to annual uplift), and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year. The start date is September 2026.

This studentship is funded through the Department’s new starter allocation.

We recommend that you apply early as the advert will be removed once the position has been filled.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.