Microplastics and chemical additives from virgin and recycled Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging material: Leachability, toxicity, and behavioural aspects

This interdisciplinary PhD project examines the risks linked to virgin PET and recycled PET packaging materials, with a focus on microplastic release, chemical additive leaching, toxicity, and public perception. The project is organised into three work packages: comparative analysis of leachability of microplastics and chemical additives from virgin and recycled PET investigation of toxicity on human health social study of consumer perceptions of risks associated with PET packaging The research combines environmental analysis, toxicology, and social science methods. It includes study periods at both Coventry University in the UK and Deakin University in Australia under a cotutelle arrangement. The successful candidate will graduate with two PhDs, one from each university.

Must meet admission and scholarship criteria for both Coventry University and Deakin University
Strong academic background, typically within the top 15% of undergraduate cohort
Relevant Bachelor’s degree with substantial research component or Master’s degree with significant research component
IELTS 7.0 overall with minimum 6.5 in each component
MSc or BSc in Chemistry or Environmental Chemistry preferred
Experience in laboratory work and instrumental analysis such as FTIR, Raman, LC-MS, or GC-MS
Knowledge of statistics and data analysis
Ability to work independently and in a team

Contact ad2855@coventry.ac.uk for more information. Submit full supporting documentation including a cover letter and a 2000-word statement detailing your expertise and relevance to the project.