Applications are invited for 4-year PhD studentship based in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CEB), University of Cambridge and with a placement at an AstraZeneca UK site. The student will be working on a collaborative project jointly supervised by Prof Laura Torrente Murciano in CEB and Dr Sophie Janbon at AstraZeneca. The project, entitled Accelerating Big Data in material crystallization, will focus on the fundamental understanding of the mechanism and kinetics of co-precipitation and crystallization, underpinning many drug manufacturing processes despite being poorly understood.
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual capable of thinking and working independently. Applicants should have or shortly expect to obtain a first or high second-class degree from a UK university, or an equivalent standard from an overseas university, in all previous degrees and in a relevant subject such as chemical engineering, process engineering or chemistry. Information on overseas equivalencies is available at https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/international/international-qualifications Full details of the University's entrance requirements and scholarships are specified on the following link: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/
The position is open to UK citizens or overseas students who meet the UK residency requirements for the Home Fee rate. Students will not be allowed to supplement fees via self-funding.
Full funding covering Maintenance fees at £21,500 per annum and the University Composition Fee at the Home rate is provided for the studentship, with effect from 1 October 2025. Students will also be encouraged to attend and present at the annual AstraZeneca students symposium.
To apply for this studentship, you will need to submit an application for our PhD in Chemical Engineering via https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/. You must note Prof Laura Torrente as your prospective supervisor and note vacancy reference number NQ43837 in your research proposal. We are unable to consider incomplete or late applications.
Please quote reference NQ43837 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We place major emphasis on the importance of team work and an enjoyable work environment as a foundation for performing internationally leading research. This will allow the student to acquire cutting edge research methodologies in a supportive environment, where they can focus on making the best possible scientific progress.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.