University of Glasgow

This project is jointly hosted by the Schools of Chemistry (Functional Molecules and Assemblies) and Engineering (Water and Environment), working in the BioNano Sensing and High Resolution Analytical Chemistry for Environmental Engineering laboratories, at the University of Glasgow. The University itself is one of the oldest Universities in the English-speaking world and a global top 100 institution. The College of Science and Engineering provides a world-leading environment for doctoral students which is intellectually stimulating, encourages them to contribute to culture, society and the economy and enables them to become leaders in a global environment. We have a diverse community of over 1000 students from more than 70 countries who work in innovative and transformative interdisciplinary fields. The Research will be undertaken in the Joseph Black Building in dedicated chemical synthesis and characterisation laboratories and the brand new state-of-the-art analytical laboratories in the Advanced Research Centre.

Researchers within the BioNano Sensing laboratory make and study the interactions of molecules, nanomaterials and biomaterials to create the next generation of sensors, diagnostics and other advanced technologies. We have a particular focus on supramolecular assemblies and optically active luminescent/plasmonic nanoparticle systems, coupled to chemical ’nose/tongue’ sensor arrays that mimic mammalian taste/olfaction. The HiRACE team put analytical chemistry to the service of engineering and environmental engineering in particular, developing both innovative methods using advanced chromatography and mass spectrometry and novel sensitive assays and sensors that can be used with routine lab equipment. A particular focus is understanding and controlling biological, chemical and process mechanisms in environmental biotechnologies.

Both teams have a strong belief that diversity drives innovation and promote an inclusive research culture at Glasgow. The University is a signatory to the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers and offers extensive opportunities for industrial and public engagement and personal development.