Postgraduate research opportunities Investigation of crystal formation in pharmaceutical crystallisation processes

Formation of crystals is a crucial part of many manufacturing processes in industries including pharmaceuticals, foods, chemicals and advanced materials. Nevertheless, formation of new crystals remains poorly understood and there are many fundamental questions about crystal formation and practical challenges in designing and controlling industrial crystallisation processes.

This project aims at investigation of secondary nucleation which plays a key role in many industrial crystallisation processes. Secondary nucleation is formation of new crystals in presence pre-existing crystals in a crystallisation process. This project will further our understanding of how secondary nucleation works and how it can be designed and optimised at scales relevant to industrial pharmaceutical manufacturing. There are two major physical aspects of the crystallisation process that become important under manufacturing conditions but whose effects on crystal nucleation and growth are not well understood: firstly, the effect of the fluid flow typical for industrial scale processes; and secondly the effect of mechanical impact of existing crystals in agitated vessel used in manufacturing plants. The project will contribute both fundamental insight into crystal behaviour and phenomenology, and progress in advanced industrial manufacturing methods for scale up and process design.

In addition to undertaking cutting edge research, students are also registered for the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Development (PGCert), which is a supplementary qualification that develops a student’s skills, networks and career prospects.

• Chemical and Process Engineering
• PhD Chemical Engineering

Further information

This PhD project is initially offered on a self-funding basis. It is open to applicants with their own funding, or those applying to funding sources. However, excellent candidates will be eligible to be considered for a University scholarship.

The University of Strathclyde is a socially progressive institution that strives to ensure equality of opportunity and celebrates the diversity of its student and staff community. Strathclyde is people-oriented and collaborative, offering a supportive and flexible working culture with a deep commitment to our equality, diversity and inclusion charters, initiatives, groups and networks.

We strongly encourage applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnicity, women, LGBT+, and disabled candidates and candidates from lower socio-economic groups and care-experienced backgrounds.