De Montfort University PhD: Biofilms Within Healthcare, Pharmaceutical and Hospitality Laundries
Biofilms within industrial healthcare, pharmaceutical and hospitality laundries: the impact on infection control, antibiotic resistance, wastewater and the environment
Are you ready to make a global impact on healthcare, pharmaceutical, and hospitality hygiene? Join De Montfort University for a unique PhD opportunity investigating biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance in industrial laundry systems, shaping future infection control and environmental safety.
About the project
- PhD Duration: 4 years
- Application deadline: 28 April 2025
- Start Date: 1 October 2025
- Stipend: £20,780 in 2025. This will rise each year in line with UKRI’s recommended amount.
- Fee waiver: Home fee waiver only
- Industry partner: Biotechnology and Biological Research Council via the National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC)
The industrial laundry sector is undergoing rapid change, driven by environmental goals and increasing demand for microbiological safety. This PhD project will explore the formation of biofilms within industrial laundry systems and their impact on infection control, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), wastewater quality, and environmental sustainability.
The project is a collaboration between De Montfort University, the National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC), and the Textile Services Association, with direct support from industry leaders across the UK and internationally.
Key research aims include: investigating the extent of biofilm formation in laundry systems, identifying antibiotic and disinfectant-resistant bacteria in industrial laundry wash systems, assessing the environmental impact of laundry wastewater containing antibiotics and chemical residues, and exploring chemical, engineering, and system design solutions to control biofilms and reduce AMR. The research will be part of a larger body of work and is strategically linked with an industry-funded PhD.
The PhD includes unique placement and training opportunities where the successful candidate will gain industry exposure with placements across the UK and internationally. The candidate will also be a member of the NBIC Doctoral Training Centre in Biofilms Innovation, Technology, and Engineering (BITE) PhD programme which provides access to specialist laboratory and analytical training, as well as opportunities to develop entrepreneurial and public engagement skills.
You will be supported by an internationally recognised, multidisciplinary supervisory team with expertise in infection control, wastewater treatment, biofilm microbiology, and industrial chemistry.
De Montfort University are seeking an enthusiastic, highly motivated candidate with a background in microbiology, environmental science, chemistry, or a related discipline. Strong communication and analytical skills, and a desire to work across academic and industrial environments are essential.
This funded PhD studentship covers tuition fees and a stipend at the standard UKRI rate, with an anticipated start date of October 2025.
For enquiries, please contact Dr Ray Allan (raymond.allan@dmu.ac.uk) or Prof Katie Laird (klaird@dmu.ac.uk).
How to apply
For full information and to apply, please visit the De Montfort University website.