Bio-Guard: Innovative Biofouling Solutions for Buoyancy Materials

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Net Zero Maritime Energy solutions (N0MES) has a 4-year funded PhD place available for an exceptional researcher. With the support of the University of Liverpool (UoL), Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and 33 maritime energy sector partners, N0MES PGRs will pursue new, engineering-centred, interdisciplinary research to address four vital net zero challenges currently facing the North West, the UK and beyond:

1. Energy generation using maritime-based renewable energy (e.g. offshore wind, tidal, wave, floating solar, hydrogen, CCS);
2. Distributing energy from offshore to onshore, including port- and hinterland-side impacts and opportunities;
3. Addressing the short- and long-term environmental impacts of offshore and maritime environment renewable energy generation, distribution and storage; and
4. Decommissioning and lifetime extension of existing energy and facilities.

Buoyancy materials provide necessary flotation, support, and stability to enable the deployment and operation of various structures in the marine environment. They are essential components in maritime energy applications. However, biofouling of buoyancy materials can lead to various issues including increased weight, reduced buoyancy, increased drag, corrosion, and degradation of materials. For this reason, effective biofouling control on submerged buoyancy equipment surfaces is very important. Research for biofouling control primarily relies on designing antifouling coatings based on continuous release of metal ions and accompanying booster biocides to eliminate organisms approaching the surface. However, these coatings can harm non-target organisms and the marine ecosystem, and GB Biocidal Products Regulation is increasingly restricting the authorisation of biocidal products. As a result, there is an urgent need to develop environmentally friendly alternative strategies for biofouling control for submerged marine structures. The aim of this project is to develop novel buoyancy materials tailored specifically resistant to biofouling. The specific project objectives underpinning this aim are to:

1. design and prepare functional nanomaterials modified buoyancy materials.
2. characterise modified buoyancy materials by advanced characterisation techniques, including surface spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy.
3. investigate the biofouling resistance of the modified buoyancy material.
4. pilot testing in marine environments.

This PhD project brings together expertise in nanoscale surface science, material science, microbiology, fluid dynamics, oceanography, and environmental engineering to study and design biofouling solutions for buoyancy materials. The student engaged in this project will not only acquire a broad spectrum of skills in fundamental science and its practical application but also develop research, innovation, problem-solving, collaboration, and interdisciplinary skills. The aim of this project, with its multidisciplinary structure, is to prepare the candidate for a career plan spanning various sectors.

We want all of our staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, If you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result.

We believe everyone deserves an excellent education and encourage students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply.

Applicant Eligibility

Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a Master’s Degree or equivalent from a reputable University in an appropriate field of Engineering. Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field will also be considered.

Application Process

Candidates wishing to apply should complete the University of Liverpool application form [How to apply for a PhD – University of Liverpool] applying for a PhD in Civil Engineering and uploading: Degree Certificates & Transcripts, an up-to-date CV, two academic references and a supporting statement [maximum 300 words] detailing; what inspires you within this project, how your skill set matches the project, up to 3 examples showing your commitment to science, piece of science that excites you & anything else to support your application.

Candidates wishing to discuss the research project should contact the primary supervisor [[email protected]], those wishing to discuss the application process should discuss this with the CDT Manager Matt Fulton [[email protected]].