High-internal phase Pickering emulsions as templates for biofunctional materials

Summary

A high internal-phase emulsion (HIPEs) is defined as a highly concentrated emulsion system, and such systems have shown superior stabilities against physical, or chemical changes. Pickering HIPE (emulsions stabilised solely by particles rather than surfactants) can be prepared with an even higher internal-phase volume at a low particle concentration. Pickering HIPEs can be used in different sectors such as bioreactors, catalyst carriers, tissue engineering, and pharmaceuticals and for applications varying from fat replacers to the development of porous structures, such as for 3-D printing. Given the urgent need for sustainable systems in all soft matter fields, the use of plant proteins or crystalline bio-derived particles (such as cellulose and polyphenol) to develop novel architectures is of utmost importance. This project aims to understand the interactions between plant-based and crystalline bio-derived particles in macro-level and at the interface. Using this knowledge Pickering HIPEs will be produced.

Applicants to research degree programmes in the School of Food Science and Nutrition should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline, or a good honours degree together with a Masters degree.
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The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study in the School of Food Science and Nutrition is:
- IELTS - an overall band of 6.5 with no individual skill band below 6.0 in all components
- iBT TOEFL - (Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language): a score of 92 overall with Listening 21; Reading 21; Speaking 23; Writing 22.

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