Antimicrobial Gels for Biomedical Applications

Infection is one of the most serious complications following tissue injury and there is a vital need for novel treatments to improve patient outcomes. Non-drug-based antimicrobials have recently shown success in providing substantially improved outcomes by delivery of multi-modal forms of action that are difficult for microbes to develop resistance towards. This project will add a further line of defence by leveraging the specificity of enzymes in combination with biocompatible delivery gels, based on deep eutectic solvents, to form multifunctional, non-dehydrating healing gels. As part of our team, you contribute to a multi-partner programme that will use highthroughput experimentation and/or computational analysis to understand how formulations can be varied to both continue to deliver antimicrobial response and ensure enzyme compatibility and functionality from a molecular level. You will use this learning to tailor materials for specific biomedical applications, including investigating the possibilities for 3D printing. As the project is multidisciplinary, training will be provided as required. You will also have a range of opportunities to gain valuable transferrable skills (including through our doctoral college), network with international and industry partners, and be well-set up for a role in either industry, data science or academia at the end of the programme. 94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021

The standard University IELTS English language requirement is 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each individual element (reading, writing, listening and speaking).

International students: £28,600

UK students: £5,006

UK/Home: £5,006

International: £28,600

July 2026, October 2026

3 August 2026

• Loughborough, United Kingdom