PhD studentships
Investigations of structure/property relationships for α-keratinous fibres
Alpha-keratinous materials, such as hairs, nails, horn etc, are biological, nano-structured composites with a complex morphology. The major component in this structure consists of para-crystalline, partly α-helical intermediate filaments (IF, diameter approx 10nm) from the cell's cytoskeleton, which are embedded in an amorphous matrix of associated proteins (KAP). In fibres this composite forms the fibre core, which is surrounded by a protective, multi-layered arrangement of amorphous cuticle cells.
This project aims to investigate a number of interrelated scientific problems deriving from gaps as well as inconsistencies of fundamental as well as practical relevance in our understanding of the relationship between the mechanical properties, namely, of hair fibres in a textile or cosmetic context and their molecular and morphological structure.
Within the project pertinent facets of the following general questions are expected to be comprehensively addressed:
- consistent measurements of helical crystallinity in keratins
- orientation of helical filaments in keratinous fibres
- molecular and morphological analysis of the extensional and torsional properties of keratins
- analysis of the plasticizing action of water, alcohols, and other actives on the morphological components of keratins
Analyses will be mainly conducted by thermal and dynamic mechanical analysis, light- and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman- and NMR-spectroscopy, as well as analytical equipment built to purpose.
The project is corroborated by research projects conducted in parallel, which deal with pertinent aspects of the protein structure of proteins.
Degree Type
PhD - 3 years (from MPhil/MSc), 4 years (from BSc)
Since the project is embedded in a wider portfolio of projects with international cosmetic companies, some financial support will be available.
Eligibility
BSc or MPhil/MSc in biology-related areas of physics, chemistry and material science, Class 1 or 2.1.
The project is suited for a candidate, who has an interest in biological materials as well as mechanics, analytics, and physical chemistry. Integral part of the project will be the interaction with industry.Funding
If you are from UK / EU you can apply for funding for this studentship through the School's EPSRC Doctoral Training Account (DTA). The award will provide Home tuition fees and an EPSRC-level stipend of £12,940.
Awards will be based on the merit of your application against the applications of other applicants. There is no deadline for applications, but the majority of funding will be allocated in June 09.
Start Date
Anytime
Application Deadline
None
Reference
PhD/09/FJW/01
Supervisor Contact Details
For further information about the project, please contact:
Professor Franz-Josef Wortmann
Email: franz.wortmann@manchester.ac.uk
Tel: + 44 (0) 161 306 4148
Admissions Contact
Postgraduate Team, School of Materials
Email: pg-materials@manchester.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)161 306 4824
How to Apply
You can apply for postgraduate opportunities online quoting the project reference number.