Advanced techniques for the detection of chemical hazards in Archive Repositories through Heritage Science

Introduction to Opportunity:

There is an urgent need to address the scale of residual pesticides present in historical records to understand the past and secure the future and safe access to the National Heritage. In the ADeCHAR project, a set of analytical techniques will be applied to detect pesticides in archival materials by targeting harmful chemicals and their breakdown products.

The problem will be addressed by adapting a colourimetric technology (CRIM-TRACK detection sensor), developed for the detection of illicit materials and their precursor chemicals, to detect pesticides non-invasively in archival materials by targeting harmful chemicals and their breakdown products.

A set of other analytical techniques will be adapted to complement the CRIM-TRACK detection technology. The outcomes from this research will inform on past archival practice around the globe, feed into new practices and open new avenues for safer and more informed collection access and monitoring.

This project also contributes to the innovative application of heritage science methods and the development of heritage scientists in the UK, coinciding with the start of UKRI’s RICHeS initiative.

Brief outline of area/discipline the project relates to and its relevance today:

The PhD programme will inform on past archival practice around the globe, feed into new practices and open new avenues for safer and more informed collection access and monitoring.

This PhD studentship will study the mechanisms used to detect harmful chemicals (pesticides) through chemistry, applied analytical chemistry and sensor technologies. Furthermore, their breakdown products will be identified in Archive items with the aim to deliver a new advanced detection tool. Alongside this, a machine learning approach will be utilised with the aim of efficiently analysing large datasets, the extraction of meaningful information and the creation of a chemical database.

This project will also contribute to the innovative application of heritage science methods and the development of heritage scientists in the UK, coinciding with the start of UKRI’s RICHeS initiative.

Project Focus/Aim:

The PhD student will be involved in the adaptation of the CRIM-TRACK detection devise, previously developed at Cranfield through collaborative research with EU partners, for the detection of pesticides in archive collections. The student will oversee the:

1. Identification of harmful chemicals in archived items.
2. Selection of responsive molecules (dyes) chemicals for the CRIM-TRACK colourimetric microchip.
3. Understand the response detection mechanism.
4. Fabrication of the colourimetric microchips.
5. Collection, analysis and validation of detection data in laboratory and The National Archives scenarios.
6. Inform heritage science and exemplify The National Archives’ commitment to entrepreneurship in safeguarding historical records ensuring a safer environment for TNA staff and visitors.

Why choose Cranfield:

Cranfield Defence and Security (CDS) provide unique educational opportunities to the Defence and security sectors of both public and private sector organisations.

Based at the UK Defence Academy at Shrivenham in Oxfordshire, CDS is the academic provider to the UK Ministry of Defence for postgraduate education at the Defence Academy, training in engineering, science, acquisition, management and leadership.

Expected impact/results of research project:

The ADeCHAR project is ambitious and will address very important aspects for the detection of harmful chemicals.

The PhD programme will inform on past archival practice around the globe, feed into new practices and open new avenues for safer and more informed collection access and monitoring. This project will also contribute to the innovative application of heritage science methods and the development of heritage scientists in the UK, coinciding with the start of UKRI’s RICHeS initiative.

Being part of Cranfield’s Researcher Network:

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This Network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas, identify opportunities for collaboration and create smaller communities of practice. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

Within CDS, Cranfield Forensic Institute (which is based at both Shrivenham and Cranfield’s main campus in Bedfordshire) has significant expertise in Heritage Science, Archaeology/Archaeological Science, and Heritage Crime.

Entry Requirements:

Applicants should have a master’s degree in chemistry or a related subject, to be able to carry out independently organic synthesis and analytical chemistry and a good understanding of software integration and graphical user interface tools.

This PhD is offered as full and part time.

Applicant considering part-time study are strongly advised to discuss practicalities with the supervisors prior to application to ensure that the workload of the PhD can be balanced appropriately.

Additional Funding Information for Overseas Students:

For Home students: Full-time home rate for PhD degrees, Doctoral Stipend for 2024/25 is £19,237, The UKRI Indicative Fee Level for 2024/25 is £4,786. An additional travel and related expenses grant during the course of the project courtesy of The National Archives worth up to £1000 per year for 4 years.

For International students: they must provide the difference between Home and OS fees (Home fees: £4,786 OS fees: £19,675 and VISA fees.

Interview:

Early July – Online

Reasonable Adjustments for the Recruitment Process:

Our Learning Support Officers are here to help guide and support students with specific learning support needs or impairments. They will work with you to understand how your condition may affect your studies, discuss options available to you and co-ordinate reasonable adjustments to support you.

Learn more here:

Disability support information (cranfield.ac.uk)

Recruitment and Application strategy for Underrepresented Groups:

It is important to us that our organisations are more diverse, so we encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities. We especially keen to hear from candidates from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds as they are currently underrepresented at this level in this area.

Please follow this link to learn more about the recruitment and application process for Underrepresented Groups:

Equity, diversity and inclusion (cranfield.ac.uk)

Application:

Apply here