PhD Vacancy – Shedding New Light on Agrochemicals

Job title:

PhD Vacancy – Shedding New Light on Agrochemicals

Company

National Physical Laboratory

Job description

Shedding New Light on Agrochemicals: Exploration of Nanoparticles as Delivery Vehicles for Enhancing Translaminar MovementNanoparticulate carriers have great potential to provide targeted agrochemical delivery and dose reduction while transforming agriculture into a more sustainable environment. In partnership with Syngenta and NPL, this project will explore the application of cutting-edge photonic techniques to provide new insight into how nanoparticle carriers interact with plants at the cellular scale to enhance the delivery of active ingredients. Current projections predict the world’s population will have increased by 25% in 2050 reaching 9.7 billion1 people. Meanwhile arable land is being lost at an alarming rate – a 2015 study revealed around 33% of the world’s arable land had been lost between 1975 – 20152. What this means is that there will be significantly more mouths to feed from substantially less land. Given that global food production is already being stretched to its limits, major technological developments in agriculture are needed to meet future demands. Agriculture relies heavily on crop protection products.A 2018 study revealed that crop yields without the use of such products are 20 – 40% lower than when they are used3. While these gains are impressive, further improvements can be made by minimising losses of active ingredients during the delivery process. Nanotechnology holds significant potential for the development of novel pesticide formulations with reduced toxicity and environmental impacts. Utilising nanoparticle formulations could safeguard soluble agrochemicals, precisely target weeds, and prevent uncontrolled dispersion into subsoil and groundwater. Upon application in the field, these particles gradually release the compound at the required locations, thereby minimizing losses into the subsoil due to rain and irrigation. Consequently, the quantity of active ingredient needed for is significantly reduced. This project will explore the feasibility of a cutting-edge optical imaging technique, Coherent Raman Scattering, to provide new insight into the size dependent uptake of nanoparticles into leaves and to explore whether it is possible to detect the controlled release of agents from particles into cells. This capability could transform agrochemical R&D and lead to the rational engineering of the next-generation of agrochemicals with enhanced efficacy and reduced environmental impact.The student will benefit from training in cutting-edge photonics and access to Exeter’s EPSRC CONTRAST facility. Syngenta will provide expertise in nano-formulations, and bring valuable insight into agrochemical development and commercialisation. NPL will provide training/expertise in standardisation to enable the translation of the novel analytical technique into an industrial R&D setting.About YouApplicants should have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of science or technology. Applicants with a Lower Second Class degree will be considered if they also have a Masters degree or have significant relevant non-academic experience. If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency.
Link to apply:About UsThe National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our page.We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of . Our are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please

Expected salary

Location

Teddington, Gloucestershire

Job date

Sat, 27 Apr 2024 04:47:43 GMT

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