PhD Studentships 2025

Reference SLR 1 - A Novel Renewable Energy Harvesting System for Residential Areas: Most of wind energy are from offshore horizontal-axis wind turbines. However, large-scale horizontal-axis wind turbine farms with rotor diameters greater than 5 m, produce great noise and have been shown to contribute to the rise of global temperatures. This proposed interdisciplinary PhD programme will investigate a novel hybrid renewable energy harvest system which has self-starting capability and can harvest the low-speed wind from 3600 to generate electricity. This system has the potential to provide a sustainable energy supply locally by harvesting both wind and solar energy in urban areas. A prototype of this hybrid system will be constructed near a building to assess its capacity of electricity output, energy efficiency & sustainability as well as suitability to the residential area so that the potential commercialisation of the new hybrid renewable energy harvest system could be explored.

Enquiries: Prof Yong Chen, y.k.chen@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 2 - The Geopolitics of Green Hydrogen: Resource Dependencies and Shifts in Global Power Dynamics: East and North Africa (MENA) region with its abundant sunshine and wind for renewable energy generation is emerging as a key exporter. However, green hydrogen production relies on water and rare-earth elements, both scarce in MENA countries. Extensive water abstractions will increase pressures on water resources and thus exacerbate socio‐economic and environmental challenges. Meanwhile, the lack of rare earths intensifies global competition over resource access. This interdisciplinary PhD project will examine how these developments reshape global energy dependencies and geopolitical economics by bridging insights from international relations, geography, and political economy.

Applicant Background: Candidates should have background in International Relations, International Political Economy, Regional or Development Studies, or a related field. Experience in the use of qualitative and/or quantitative research methods is desirable. Familiarity with energy governance, climate diplomacy, or regional studies (MENA/Europe) would be an asset.

Enquiries:Dr Darren Crook, d.crook@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 3 - A Net Zero approach: Transformation of organic waste to prestigious functionalised Chitinous biopolymer for the applications in water treatments: Chitin and chitosan are non-toxic, biodegradable, and biocompatible biopolymers used for a range of biomedical applications, including drug delivery, antimicrobial treatments, tissue engineering, bleeding control and water purification processes etc. Currently, 95% of the commercially available chitin/chitosan are extracted from crustaceans using a hazardous chemical process (i.e. strong acids and alkalis) at elevated temperatures, entailing considerable environmental hazard for their disposal. This PhD Programme aims to: (i) develop a total recyclable system and ensuring the zero reagent waste generation from using the Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) process; (ii) modify the chitosan by adding/altering functional groups within the polymeric chain to enhance antimicrobial properties targeting pathogen commonly found in contaminated water for filtration applications; (iii) investigate the physiochemical and other behaviours of the honeycomb chitinous materials and comparing them to the typical commercial products.

Applicant background: The candidates are expected to have both BSc and MSc that are relevant to Engineering and/or Chemistry disciplines.

Enquiries: Dr Yuen Ki Cheong, y.cheong2@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 4 - Examining Factors Influencing Consumer Choice in Purchasing Biocompostable Packaging Products: The transition to biocompostable materials is one of the required pathways to reduce plastic waste. The role that consumers play will be critical in market acceptance of the alternatives. Studies on consumer adoption of biocompostable materials are often place-based and context-dependent. This PhD programme will focus on packaging in the fresh produce sector in Great Britain. This research aims to examine factors influencing consumer choice behaviour, and their willingness to pay, when purchasing fresh produce products packaged in biocompostable alternatives.

Applicant Background: Candidates should have a background in consumer behaviour, public policy, or environmental science. Broader knowledge and interest in sustainability, packaging materials, and market adoption is desirable. Experience in multi-method research design, including systematic reviews, surveys instrument design, and operations data analysis, is preferred. An understanding of systems thinking and policy frameworks will be beneficial. The candidate should be comfortable working across disciplines, and with external stakeholders.

Enquiries: Prof Amin Hosseinian Far, a.hosseinian-far@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 5 - Understanding the effects of Silicon (Si) nutrient application on changes of soil microorganisms to enhance crop production: Crop production is facing many challenges, such as topsoil depletion, reduced ecological functions due to excessive use of chemical pesticides, various biotic and abiotic stresses intensified by climate change. These challenges have highlighted the importance of restoring beneficial functioning of soil microbiota. In recent years, the use of silicon (Si) or their compounds such as silicates or their minerals has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate the adverse effects of environmental stresses on the soil microbiome. Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth. This PhD programme aims to understand the effects of silicon on soil microorganisms associated with strawberry plants to enhance crop production. This project will also address novel approaches (nano technology) to enhance the Si applications and investigate their impacts on the soil microorganisms associated with Strawberry plants.

Applicant background: Degree in biological sciences (2:1 or higher), knowledge and skills on microbiological techniques is desirable

Enquiries: Dr Chinthani Karandeni Dewage, c.s.karandeni-dewage@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 6 - Public Banks in the Just Transition: Faced with a series of overlapping crises, which span the economy, natural environment, and human health, there is an urgent need for wide-ranging changes in line with the principles of a ‘just transition’. Deep societal transformations, such as those implied by a just transition, require large volumes of front-up investments. In past episodes of structural transformation, public banks have played a fundamental role in financing infant industries and infrastructure. Existing research has stressed that public banks exist within capitalist and often financialised societies, that they may be enabled or constrained by the concrete reality in which they operate. This PhD programme aims to investigate the variegated dynamics of public banking within the economic and political environments in which they operate, resulting in green washing, imposition of ‘blended finance’, green grabbing and dispossession.

Applicant Background: Candidates should have a background in economic geography, economics, political economy, politics, or sustainability studies. Strong analytical skills, experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods, and an interest in sustainability and transition will be advantageous.

Enquiries: Dr Bruno Bonizzi, b.bonizzi@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 7 - From green discontent to just transitions – Informing policymaking through a comparative analysis of drivers of discontent in the productive, energy, and transport transitions: As economies worldwide pursue ambitious decarbonisation goals to achieve climate targets, the restructuring of productive, energy, and transport systems profoundly impacts individuals, communities, and regions, thereby provoking societal dissatisfaction. An emerging body of research highlights the rise of ‘green discontent’, especially in ‘left-behind’ regions (Rodríguez-Pose & Bartalucci, 2024; Vale et al., 2024; Grashof & Basilico, 2024). These developments call for policy solutions at various levels of government to enable ‘just transitions’. This PhD project will conduct a comparative analysis of the drivers of discontent related to the energy, transport and productive transitions, drawing on insights from economic geography, political economy, and politics, to inform the design of socially inclusive and publicly accepted environmental legislation.

Applicant Background:Candidates should have a background in economic geography, economics, political economy, politics, or sustainability studies. Strong analytical skills, experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods, and an interest in socio-economic aspects of sustainability transitions will be advantageous.

Enquiries:Dr Christina Wolf, c.wolf@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 8 - PhD Topic: Nature-based solutions for edible urbanism in contemporary UK new towns and garden settlements – exploring food and place lessons from ‘othered’ new towns and neighbourhoods in the UK and internationally: Nature based solutions (so-called NbS) for edible urbanism are an increasing focus for research internationally often within a healthy place paradigm. Both new town and garden city development forms have a strong historic connection to sustainable, healthy food principles but these food connections have largely been lost in practice. The UK is predominantly making urban spaces which do not engage eVectively with food, health and nature, thus representing a substantial research gap and poor food and urbanism outcomes. This PhD programme aims to address this critical problem to develop and apply placemaking lessons from contemporary traditional new town urbanism. Building on previous research and theoretical framing by Parham, Hardy and Sadoux (2022) this doctoral research would explore food as a key theme in identifying learning from contemporary new towns and new sustainable neighbourhoods which it is argued have been ‘othered’ including Poundbury, Nansleddan, Tornagrain, Chapelton of Elsick and planned places such as Symonshyde and Cooper’s Green.

Applicant background: Candidate are expected to have a placemaking disciplinary background from areas including urban design, planning, geography, urban sociology, architecture, or landscape architecture, but would be open to candidates from other disciplines if they could demonstrate suVicient capacity to engage with the proposed research topic.

Enquiries: Dr Susan Parham,   s.parham@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 9 - The role of interconnected industrial networks for monitoring and reporting emissions, pollution and waste produced in a company’s supplier network? This PhD programme aims to investigate how food and associated packaging industries can contribute to transition to sustainability and what role integrated industrial networks can play. The involves understanding data ecosystems alongside agroecosystems; seeking to provide a holistic overview of the data ecosystem; identifying where interoperability solutions are needed; and understanding data supply and demand amongst networked socio-ecological actors across the ecosystem to help ensure that any solutions that emerge are fit for purpose, guarantee food security and are commercially viable.

Applicant background:Business, Marketing, Environmental Management or comparable fields.

Enquiries:Dr M aurizio Catulli , m.catulli@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 10 - Integrated Raman Spectroscopy and Quantum Photocatalysis for Pathogen Detection and Microplastic Remediation: Viral infections and microplastic pollution are two of the most pressing global health and environmental challenges, as underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic and a growing body of research on the detrimental effects of microplastics, plus heavy metals on human health. Of particular concern are microplastics in marine environments, where they enter the food chain through bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms, and airborne pathogens—both of which underscore the urgent need for innovative and effective mitigation strategies. This PhD project proposes the development of a novel Light Spectrum System (LSS) that integrates Raman spectroscopy, UV-visible light, and multifunctional carbon-based quantum nanoclusters. The system aims to detect and degrade airborne and waterborne biological pathogens, oxidise toxic heavy metals, and decompose persistent microplastic pollutants—including non-stick cooking pan polymers such as PTFE, PVDF, and PFAS.

Applicant background: Applicants should hold a First or Upper Second Class (2:1 or above) undergraduate or MSc degree in one of the following areas: Physical Sciences, Engineering (Materials, Mechanical, Biomedical, Chemical, or Optical), Chemistry or Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering

Enquiries:Dr Guogang Ren, g.g.ren@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 11 - A Sustainable Heating & Cooling System for Buildings using Novel Nano Phase Change Materials: This interdisciplinary PhD programme will tackle the knowledge gaps of a novel system for sustainable energy conversion and storage in classic buildings [1] so that the affordable novel high-performance system in buildings can be characterised and achieved. The aim is to investigate the potential of integrating novel phase change materials (PCMs) to enhance energy savings in typical multi-layer thick-walled buildings, such as Victorian-style buildings, while preserving their architectural integrity, and provide economic feasibility and guidance for the implementation of this new system. The project will construct a multi-layer wall prototype from a typical Victorian-era building to assess energy efficiency & sustainability in such standard building construction in a temperate environment. A novel PCM layer will be incorporated into this multi-layer wall to optimise energy savings and comfort levels in this type of building while maintaining the heritage value of such structures.

Enquiries: Prof Yong Chen, y.k.chen@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 12 - Sustainable Harvesting Energy Systems from Building Wastewater with a Microfluidic Microbial Fuel Cell: The discharge of untreated and raw wastewater from buildings and societies has significant effects on the environment since it may cause dangerous issues on human health in worldwide situation. However, wastewater streams are the great source of storage energy to be harvested. In line with the global movement towards sustainable buildings and dwellings, this project aims to promote microfluidic microbial fuel cell (MMFC) technologies to harvest more energy from buildings’ wastewater/swage to serve the buildings locally by development of a novel MMFC system with sound energy outputs.  In this PhD programme, new nano materials will be prepared, synthesised and characterised so that the optimised nano materials with low electrical resistance for electrodes can be achieved and implemented for a new MMFC system. A series of lab tests on both the new electrodes and the MMFC system prototype will be carried out. In particular, the performance of the new MMFC system will be evaluated under specific given conditions of building wastewater and feasibility of implementation near a public building.

Enquiries: Prof Yong Chen, y.k.chen@herts.ac.uk

Reference SLR 13 - Climate change and its implications for economic growth in developing nations: This PhD programme will investigate the non-linear relationships between climate change and economic development in resource-constrained environments. Leveraging advanced AI methodologies—including neural networks, ensemble models, and deep learning algorithms—the research will analyse large-scale datasets combining historical climate records, socio-demographic data, and economic performance metrics from developing countries. By modelling complex patterns that traditional tools often miss, this AI driven approach will try to enhance the predictive accuracy and enable robust scenario analysis under various climate change projections.

Applicant background : Background in Climate Science, Economics, Data Science, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering. Programming skills with at least one of the following programming languages: Python, FORTRAN, C/C++, MATLAB, IDL

Enquiries: Dr Pushp Raj Tiwari , p.r.tiwari@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW1 - Identification of new microRNA biomarkers for early detection and development of 3D-printed targeted therapies in paediatric medulloblastoma: Medulloblastoma (MB) is one of the most common types of brain cancer in children, making up more than 20% of all childhood brain tumours. Current treatments are limited and often lead to poor outcomes and long-term side effects. One promising area of research focuses on microRNAs (miRNAs). However, detecting miRNAs accurately can be tricky. Current methods can be slow, complex, and not always reliable. This PhD programme aims to create a small, automated lab-on-a-chip device that can quickly and easily detect miRNAs from a tiny drop of blood. We will explore smart, miniaturised technologies, like spinning discs with tiny channels and automatic flow control to extract and analyse these molecules without needing a large lab setup. In addition, using 3D printing, we plan to create tailor-made doses of new compounds developed in our lab. These will be tested on medulloblastoma cells grown in the lab to see how well they work and how safe they are.

Applicant background: Candidates are expected to hold at least a First or Upper Second Class (2:1) Honours degree in Biosciences or a closely related discipline. A taught MSc or MSc by Research in a relevant field is highly desirable, and research experience is essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong interest in cancer biology, microRNA biology, and high-throughput technologies.

Enquiries:Dr Maria Braoudaki, m.braoudaki@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW2 - Development of predictive Biomarkers of Vascular Calcification: This PhD programme aims to investigate the role of microRNAs in serum in inducing vascular calcification (VC) in aging in the presence or absence of renal, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Serum samples will be collected from a target population and propensity of serum to induce SMC calcification will be examined on cultures of human aortic SMCs and calcification will be determined by staining with Alizarin Red S (ARS) for calcific plaques and by calcium measurements to determine the degree of calcification. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) will be carried out to determine and validate critical expression level of important microRNAs known to be involved in VC progression and to correlate these with the degree of VC. The underlying mechanisms associated with the actions of identified microRNAs will be investigated (studies to be determined following identification of microRNAs). Inhibitors of targeted microRNAs will be used to assess their potential in blocking or regulating human aortic SMC calcification.

Applicant background: Candidates are expected to hold at least a First or Upper Second Class (2:1) Honours degree in a science related subject. A taught MSc or MSc by Research in a relevant field is highly desirable.

Enquiries: Dr Shori Thakur, s.n.1.thakur@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW3 - Effective phage formulations for eliminating intracellular Staphylococcus aureus: There is a clinical need to develop more efficacious treatment for intracellular infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Such infections do not respond to conventional antimicrobials because of both drug resistance and inaccessibility within host cells. Bacteriophages (phages) are bacterial viruses and recognised as a viable option to control antimicrobial resistant bacteria. This PhD programme aims to utilise artificial intelligence (AI) to progress the required research in microbiology, pharmaceutical science and chemical engineering to achieve rapid progress. It will use strictly lytic phages encapsulated with carriers such as chitosan for intracellular delivery and effective killing of intracellular MRSA. Phage efficacy of killing bacteria will be tested in cell models to understand the mechanisms of cell entry and immune responses. Experimental data will be used for data training and experimental validation of predictive AI models which will be novel in their use for this application.

Applicant background: Candidates must have a BSc in a Biological Science, Pharmaceutical Science, or related disciplines, with First or Upper Second-Class honours. It is desirable for candidates to have an MSc or MSc by Research in the above disciplines. This project requires a strong interest in multidisciplinary research to investigate microbial interactions between phage, bacteria, and mammalian cells, applying both wet lab (microbiology, cel biology, molecular biology, pharmaceutical science) and dry lab (computation and engineering) methods.

Enquiries:Dr Shan Goh, s.goh5@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW4 - Enhancing the assessment of mental health conditions through voice signal analysis: Over 1.85 million people were in contact with mental health, learning disability, and autism services at the end of November 2023, up from 1.36 million at the end of November 2019. AI-driven tools offer significant potential to support automated mental health assessments. This PhD programme aims to develop a scalable and flexible solution for remote mental health assessment based on analysing voice signals and  AI-driven speech analysis technologies. Although preliminary research suggests that voice-based AI models can detect mental health conditions, the specific patterns in voice signals associated with different disorders require further investigation.

Applicant background: The ideal candidate for this role will have a background in Psychology or Psychiatry or Computer Science, with a strong interest in—or a willingness to develop expertise in—AI and machine learning for affective computing and mental health applications.

Enquiries:Dr Diamantis Toutountzidis, d.toutountzidis@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW5 - Stroke by stroke towards healthy ageing: exploring the protective effects of rowing on cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, and brain health: Exercise is largely classified as endurance or resistance training, each eliciting distinct physiological adaptations, and thus, both included in the official guidelines. Achieving the full spectrum of health benefits therefore requires a considerable time commitment, posing a challenge for many individuals. Rowing, however, can be considered a hybrid form of training, amalgamating characteristics of both aerobic and resistance exercise, potentially eliciting multiple health outcomes simultaneously. Whilst physiological adaptations to habitual rowing are well documented, the neurological benefits of rowing are unknown.  A characteristic of rowing is that is causes an acute reduction in cerebral blood flow and oxygenation. An aim of this project would be to investigate whether this may be of benefit to brain health.

Applicant Background: Candidates should have a backgroundin Sport and Exercise Science, Bioscience, or another life sciences degree with experience of undertaking research.

Enquiries:Dr Samuel Meyler, s.meyler2@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW6 - Visually Assisted Navigation System for Prosthetic Implantation to Support Hip Joint Arthroplasty: A critical aspect of total hip replacement (THR) surgery is the accurate implantation of prosthetic components within the "safe zone." Even a slight misalignment can lead to surgical failure and severe post-operative complications. Technologies such as computed tomography (CT) and robotic-assisted surgical tools have various limitations. This PhD programme will develop a visually assisted prototype navigation system that provides real-time guidance during hip arthroplasty. The proposed system will combine image-sensing cameras with an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), incorporating gyroscopes, accelerometers, and magnetometers to achieve high precision in implant positioning. The compact, portable system will be mounted on the femoral head to estimate the pose between the femoral head and the acetabular cup, ensuring accurate placement into the pelvic bone.

Applicant Background: Candidates with backgrounds in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Robotics and AI, or Biomedical Engineering are encouraged to apply.

Enquiries:Dr Syed Mudassir Hussain, s.m.hussain2@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW7 - AI-Driven Gait Analysis for Fall Risk Prediction: Falls are a leading cause of injury and mortality among older adults, often resulting in loss of independence and increased healthcare costs. Traditional fall risk assessments rely on biomechanical analysis and clinical evaluations, which can be subjective and lack real-time predictive power. Advancements in gait analysis, wearable EEG, and machine learning (ML) offer an opportunity to improve fall risk prediction and expand diagnostic applications. This project will develop ML models to analyse gait variability, stability, and neural control in at-risk populations. By integrating EEG-based neural control metrics with biomechanical measures collected via the GRAIL medical treadmill, we aim to create a low-cost, clinically viable diagnostic tool for fall risk and neurodevelopmental assessments.

Applicant Background: Candidates should have a background in computer science, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, biomechanics, or a related field. Experience with machine learning, signal processing, or gait analysis is advantageous.

Enquiries: Dr Andrew Greenhalgh, a.greenhalgh@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW8 - SmartTox: Machine Learning-Driven Toxicity Prediction of Thermoresponsive Polymers for Biomedical Innovation: Thermoreversible gels, which transition between solid-like and liquid-like states in response to temperature changes, have a wide range of uses across the biomedical field. Despite their potential, commercial adoption of thermoresponsive gels has been limited by the lack of predictive tools for assessing their biocompatibility and cytotoxicity. This PhD programme aims to bridge this gap by developing a machine learning-based predictive model capable of estimating the toxicity profiles of thermoresponsive polymer systems across various cell types. By training algorithms on experimental datasets derived from physicochemical, structural, and biological characteristics, the tool will enable rapid screening of polymer candidates for specific biomedical application —including those tailored for 3D printing technologies. This interdisciplinary project combines polymer chemistry, pharmacology, 3D printing, and computational modelling to address a pressing gap in biomedical material development.

Applicant background: We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with background in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline. Prior experience with cell culture or basic data science/machine learning would be advantageous but not essential.

Enquiries:Dr Sam Aspinall, s.aspinall2@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW9 - Incidences of dementia and cognitive impairment in elite level England women football players:  Research into male professional footballers suffering from incidences of dementia found that elite male football players are three times more likely to have a cognitive impairment than average populations, and outfield players six times more likely than goalkeepers. However, there is no comparative research globally which has looked at the incidence of dementia and cognitive impairment in elite women players. This PhD programme will investigate the effects of a women’s elite level football career on cognitive health on later life. using social science techniques of documentary analysis, oral history and life history (qualitative) interviews with players, including those accompanied by family members and friends.

Enquiries: Dr Jean Williams, j.williams39@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW10 - The role of mobile technology for recruiting citizen scientists living with and caring for someone with dementia: Self-management of long-term conditions in the context of dementia is often undertaken with the support of unpaid care (family or friends). While the experiences of this work are evident in qualitative research mainly based on interviews recalling pasted events, there is limited prospective data that combines people daily experiences with their interactions with health and care services and the impact this has on their quality of life. Citizen science approaches have been used in natural sciences and are growing in popularity as a way for populations to contribute data to research about everyday experiences. However, to date their use in the context of dementia has been limited. We propose this studentship would seek to understand the acceptability and feasibility of mobile technology-based citizen science approaches and their contribution to research that can intersect with health and care service provision.

Applicant background: The candidate will have an interest in co-production with vulnerable groups and the role of technology in improving people’s lives.

Enquiries:Dr Melanie Handley, m.j.handley@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW11 - Neuroprotection and symptomatic relief by Arylalkyl piperazines sulphonamides in Parkinson’s disease: studies towards a Phase I clinical trial: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by the loss of dopaminergic neurons and the accumulation of alpha-synuclein aggregates. Neuroprotection, intervening early to halt or reverse disease progression, represents the next major leap forward. Despite promising leads, most neuroprotective strategies have failed to translate into clinical success due to factors such as narrow target profiles, poor drug delivery, toxicity, and reliance on static animal models that lack clinical translatability. We have invented and patented a novel group of more than 40 arylalkyl piperazines drugs with putative neuroprotective property. However, before they can undergo first time-in-man clinical phase I investigation we must add to our current data.  This PhD project will focus on the detailed characterisation of selected lead compounds in progressive animal models of PD. The work will evaluate behavioural, biochemical and histochemical outcomes, allowing us to assess not only neuroprotection but also symptomatic relief and overall therapeutic potential. This multidisciplinary PhD offers the student exceptional training in neuropharmacology, drug discovery, preclinical development, and translational medicine.

Enquiries: Prof Mahmoud Iravani, m.iravani@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW12 - Development of Thermogel-Based Rectal Delivery System for Insulin in Diabetes Management: Insulin remains the cornerstone treatment for Type 1 and later-stage Type 2 diabetes. Despite decades of research, its delivery remains dependent on invasive subcutaneous injections, causing pain, site infections, lipodystrophy, and poor compliance—particularly among paediatric, geriatric and needle phobic patients. While oral and nasal routes have been explored, they are hindered by enzymatic degradation and poor bioavailability. Rectal delivery remains underutilised. However, current rectal formulations lack retention and mucoadhesion, resulting in inconsistent drug absorption. This PhD project aims to develop and evaluate a novel thermoresponsive hydrogel (thermogel) platform for non-invasive rectal delivery of insulin, offering a transformative alternative to subcutaneous injections for diabetic patients. The system leverages the smart material behaviour of thermogels which remains liquid at room temperature and transitions to a gel at body temperature enabling easy administration, mucosal adhesion and sustained insulin absorption via the rectum.

Applicant background: Ideal candidates will hold a minimum 2:1 or equivalent degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, or a related discipline. A postgraduate qualification (e.g., MSc) and prior laboratory experience in drug formulation, pharmacology, or in vivo models would be advantageous.

Enquiries: Dr Atheer Awad, a.awad@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW13 - Exploring the anti-ageing and neuroprotective properties of edible essential oils: a bi-model approach: The usage of non-pharmaceutical supplements such as functional foods has demonstrated to improve healthy ageing as well as reducing disease risk. Essential oils are alternatives to functional foods and are considered a group of secondary metabolites which are obtained from various aromatic plant sources including flowers, leaves, rhizomes, seeds, fruits, wood, and bark. This PhD programme aims to evaluate various edible essential oils on healthy ageing, specifically cardio-metabolic and neuroprotective health on the (a) free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans which has emerged as a powerful model system for studying health and disease followed up by (b) human clinical trials of which there is a paucity of studies.

Applicant background: Candidates are expected to hold a Bachelor's degree (upper second class) in a related field such as biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or other relevant discipline. Research experience during their undergraduate studies is also essential.

Enquiries:Dr Maria Dimitriadi, m.dimitriadi@herts.ac.uk

Reference HW14 - Tracking the metabolic signatures associated with the fatal childhood motor neuron disorder spinal muscular atrophy (SMA): Neurodegeneration is often characterised by impaired metabolism in the brain. Pancreatic defects and alterations in glucose metabolism have been associated with the fatal childhood disease spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), yet a comprehensive overview of the metabolic changes that contribute to SMA is missing. This PhD programme will draw on the strengths of invertebrate and vertebrate models in order to track the metabolic changes associated with SMA pathogenesis, thus providing an alternative area for biomarker identification and drug target development for SMA-affected infants. The proposed study will be the first to utilise invertebrate and vertebrate SMA models to functionally characterise the role of altered metabolism in SMA pathogenesis.

Applicant background: Candidates are expected to have a Bachelor's degree (upper second class) in a related field such as biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or other relevant discipline. Research experience during their undergraduate studies is also essential.

Enquiries:Dr Maria Dimitriadi, m.dimitriadi@herts.ac.uk

Reference EJ1 - The role of charity in the provision of food in hospitals in England: Whilst a growing body of research critically examines the interface between charitable and public services provision more generally, research mapping the role and exploring the politics of charity in hospital food provision is notably scarce. Given increasing attention to hospital food, the growing reliance of the NHS on charitable funding for many goods and services, and the diversity of interests involved in public food provisioning, this is an important gap. This PhD programme will address this gap by combining insights from Social Policy, Voluntary Sector Studies, Public Health and the Sociology of Food. In doing so, it will  complement an ongoing UH-led project, ‘Food with Care’ and contribute to our impactful record of research in public health inequalities.

Applicant background: Candidates should hold a first degree in social policy, sociology, anthropology, geography, history, politics, public health or related fields and a Masters with a substantial research component, or have equivalent research experience, as well as lived experience or professional expertise related to the third sector or NHS and the interface with food provisioning.

Enquiries: Prof. Rebecca O’Connell , r.oconnell2@herts.ac.uk

Reference EJ2 - Adaption of a mobile app to make travel more inclusive for autistic travellers and their families: Autistic people often find it challenging to use public transport systems. This is because autism typically brings with it a range of sensitivities that can cause autistic people extreme discomfort, resulting in high anxiety or emotional dysregulation. Most research to date to travel sensitivities has examined the experiences of autistic people travelling by bus, coach or train, with a scarcity of studies related to travelling by air. This PhD programme aims to a) develop a better understanding of the triggers involved for autistic people travelling by air, b) further a mobile phone app to assist autistic people during all stages of their journey, and c) evaluate the effectiveness, user-friendliness and flexibility of the app in practice, as it is used by autistic research participants in practice.

Applicant background: Prospective students would have an academic background in either sociology, psychology, social policy, or management with competence in using and learning new technology skills such as apps on mobile devices across android and apple osx.

Enquiries: Dr Allan Jepson , a.s.jepson@herts.ac.uk

Reference EJ3 - Reforming family food practices: the impact of food education in prison and the community on domestic food provisioning : Programmes in prisons run by charities like Food Behind Bars aim to provide prisoners with food experiences, knowledge and skills within and beyond incarceration, whilst community programmes for parents in contact with the criminal justice system often aim to support life skills including feeding themselves and their families well. Whilst some research has found that the integration of cooking and sharing food into the routine of prison life can strengthen the skills and resources available to prisoners and empower them as they move from the prison environment to the community, little research has specifically explored the impact of prison and community cooking and nutrition programmes on parents and family life. This PhD programme aims to fill this gap by combining insights from Public Health with the Sociology of Food and Families and using a mix of methods including qualitative and/or participatory approaches.

Applicant background: Candidates should hold a first degree in criminology, sociology, anthropology, geography, public health, Nutrition / Dietetics or Social Work and a masters with a substantial research component, or have equivalent research experience, as well as lived experience or professional expertise related to the criminal justice system and the interface with food and/or family life.

Enquiries: Dr Laura Abbott , l.abbott@herts.ac.uk

Reference EJ4 - The Role of Parents and Carers in Identifying and Advocating for their Twice-Exceptional Child: The twice-exceptional (2e) learner refers to individuals who possess both exceptional abilities as well as recognised, complex learning needs such as ADHD, Autism or Dyslexia. Students with this conflicting profile are very often overlooked by a system which lacks the tools and frameworks to support them. Often it is the parent who is the main driver and advocate for their child, identifying the student's strengths and weaknesses, and offering unique insights into their child's abilities in different contexts, beyond the observations of a teacher in the classroom. While many studies acknowledge the importance of caregivers, few have explored it in depth or with rigorous analysis. This PhD programme aims to investigate the pivotal role of the primary caregiver in identifying and supporting the twice-exceptional child.

Applicant background: Applicants are welcome with experience across these sectors: education, psychology, special educational needs and disabilities.

Enquiries:Dr Amanda Ludlow, a.ludlow@herts.ac.uk

Reference EJ5 - Food and families at the end of life : In health and public health research food is primarily framed as fuel or nutrients necessary for good health or recovery from illness or optimal growth. However, we need a holistic and multi-dimensional understanding of food e.g.  as a source of pleasure or conflict and distress, an expression of care, a means of inclusion (and exclusion). More recently research on food has been extended to bring a relational lens to end-of-life care; challenging the predominant bio-medical approaches to end-of-life care. This PhD programme will address food and eating practices at the end of life.  For family carers, they are often the people who take the greatest responsibility and who have the most intimate and frequent relationship with the dying person, including food intake and adjustments. An increased understanding of the challenges this can pose would improve person-centred support for family carers in a way that goes beyond giving practical advice about food.

Applicant background: The PhD would suit candidates with a first degree in sociology, anthropology, geography, public health, nutrition. The successful candidate should have masters or equivalent research experience as well as lived experience or professional expertise related to end-of- life care and food and eating.

Enquiries: Prof Kathryn Almack, k.almack@herts.ac.uk

Reference EJ6 - Diagnosis and Prevention of work-related and parental burnout in Higher Education: There is a growing epidemic of poor mental health in the Higher Education (HE) sector with half of British academics suffering from depression and 30% suffering daily burnout symptoms.  39% of parents working in the education sector reported feeling concerned about burnout. Recognition and diagnosis of work-related and parental burnout is particularly challenging. Therefore, more research is needed to examine and validate accepted methods of burnout diagnosis. Important areas for consideration include a multifaceted questionnaire approach combined with emerging biomarkers such as hair cortisol concentration. This PhD programme aims to examine the complex nature of recognising workplace and parental burnout in the context of HE and identify any patterns in different roles, demographics and levels of responsibility.

Applicant background:UG in a science related subject (including biological sciences and social sciences); PG in psychology, sociology or human physiology.

Enquiries:Dr Amy Vivien Wells, a.v.wells@herts.ac.uk

Reference EJ7 - Role of Technology in Enhancing Community Safety and Cohesion: Current literature lacks a comprehensive analysis of the impact of technological interventions on community safety and cohesion. This PhD programme aims to a deeper understanding of the role of technology in promoting safer communities and fostering social cohesion. It will offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with the use of technology in community safety initiatives. The findings will be crucial for policymakers aiming to leverage technology for community safety and cohesion, contributing to the development of effective policies and strategies.

Applicant background: Applicants are welcome from social sciences such as Psychology, education, and / or technology.

Enquiries:Dr Susan Parham, s.parham@herts.ac.uk

Reference ADS1 - Developing an XR-Based Tool for Sustainable Urban Design Integrating GIS and Architectural Workflows: As cities grapple with rapid urbanisation, climate change, and the need for sustainable transformation, the integration of digital tools into urban and architectural design processes is becoming increasingly essential. Extended reality (XR) technologies -particularly virtual and mixed reality - hold great potential. However, current approaches often treat XR as a visualisation tool detached from real-world data and design workflows, limiting its utility in evidence-based planning and sustainable design. This PhD project addresses a clear gap in the field: the lack of integrated XR systems that combine real-time geospatial data (GIS) with architectural and urban design tools to support decision-making for sustainable urban futures. It aims to develop a practical and scalable XR platform that allows users to visualise, simulate, and interact with urban environments using both design inputs and live or historical geospatial datasets.

Applicant background: Game Design or XR/VR Development, Architecture / Urban Design, Built Environment / Sustainable Design, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science (with an interest in spatial or design applications). Applicants should have experience or strong interest in digital tools for design, immersive technologies (AR/VR/XR), spatial analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Familiarity with tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine, Rhino/Grasshopper, ArcGIS, or QGIS will be considered an asset.

Enquiries: Dr Salvatore Livatino, s.livatino@herts.ac.uk

Reference ADS2 - Plant Diseases Early Detection and Analysis using Computer Vision & Machine Learning: Early detection of plant diseases is essential not only in farming, but also in the protection and control of the ecosystem and the environment in general. The climate change makes plant diseases that were traditionally unknown in specific geographic areas to now appear more and more frequently thus making the effort for protection of the environment and the food production more challenging. Although previous studies have presented efforts towards this direction the early detection aspect as well as the modelling of the mechanism of evolution of diseases on plants still remain open challenges.

Applicant background: Candidates must have a BSc/BEng in Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, or related disciplines, with First or Upper Second Class (2:1) honours. It is desirable for candidates to have an MSc or MSc by Research in the above disciplines, with emphasis in background in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning. This project requires a strong interest in multidisciplinary research to investigate computer vision and machine learning based methods to model pathologies of plants.

Enquiries: Prof Iosif Mporas, i.mporas@herts.ac.uk

Reference ADS3 - LEO Satellites enabled Surveillance Networks for Environmental Mapping: The integration of Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) namely Mobile networks and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites are being investigated to provide connectivity to mission-critical and commercial users. 6G network in the form of 3D-integrated networks' coverage extension and reliability are major motivations for such a holistic multi-technology architecture. This PhD project aims to investigate this edge-cutting 6G 3D networks to achieve the novel solution of “networked imaging and communication”, which will be used for mapping the remote environment for the land safety purpose. The main tasks of the project are: 1) to develop passive high resolution 3D networked imaging algorithms; 2) to optimise the 3D networks topology to improve the performance; and 3) to design AI/ML algorithms to classify the landscape.

Enquiries: Prof Pandelis Kourtessis, p.kourtessis@herts.ac.uk

Reference ADS4 - Changing the Environment with Intrinsically Motivated Computational Creativity: Current approaches to artificial intelligence [AI], often rely on large amounts of example data and then produce something that roughly imitates existing solutions. But how can computational creativity push beyond the boundaries of examples and produce something new? How can it adapt and expand to allow co-creativity, interaction, evaluation or amendment of solutions? This PhD programme will use different computational models of intrinsic motivationto drive the behaviour of a creative AI system. Computational models of intrinsic motivations formalize and reproduce core generic motivations of organisms, such as curiosity, or a desire to be in control of one’s own environment.

Applicant Background:Backgrounds in computer science, AI, computational creativity, game design, architecture, urban design, HCI, or similar would be highly beneficial.

Enquiries: Dr Christoph Salge, c.salge@herts.ac.uk

Reference ADS5 - Deep Learning for Predictive Maintenance and Energy Efficiency in Smart Building HVAC Systems: A large portion of the housing infrastructure in the UK is old, with limited ventilation. Changing climate conditions are forcing existing Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning(HVAC) systems to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. This PhD Programme focuses on predicting HVAC system failures to minimise energy waste, optimising temperature control based on occupancy and environmental data, and integrating non-conventional energy sources (e.g., geothermal) into HVAC operations. By leveraging Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models and Graph Neural Networks (GNNs), this research will analyse sensor data and integrate automation using Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Arduino, and wireless transceivers. These technologies will transmit data from HVAC systems to a central hub, enabling the forecasting of system malfunctions and adjusting energy usage based on occupancy and demand. The goal is to achieve a 15-25% reduction in HVAC-related energy consumption, provide a framework for retrofitting legacy systems with AI-driven efficiency upgrades, and develop predictive systems that reduce reliance on non-renewable energy by 20-30%.

Enquiries:Dr Syed Mudassir Hussain, s.m.hussain2@herts.ac.uk

Reference ADS6 - AI-aided Sensing Technologies enabled Intelligent Transport System for Future Smart Cities: Traffic lights are pollution hotspots in urban due to the emission during the waiting, so the drivers and pedestrians are being exposed to very high levels of air pollutants at traffic lights. There are over 33,000 traffic lights in the UK only. This PhD programme aims to develop advanced AI-aided sensing technologies and hardware-based platform for future smart transport lights to intelligently monitor and schedule the real-time traffic load 24/7. The main tasks of the project are to: 1) develop advanced high resolution sensing algorithms for millimetre wave radar system; 2) collect the radar cross section dataset for the various transport objects; 3) design AI/ML algorithms to recognise and count the transport objects in the lanes; and 4) intelligently schedule the dynamic traffic load in real-time to minimise the traffic congestion.

Applicant background: The candidates are expected to be with the educational background of AI/ML and electronic engineering.

Enquiries:Dr Pan Cao, p.cao@herts.ac.uk

Reference ADS7 - Cancer Modelling using Genomic Data and Artificial Intelligence: The number of paediatric brain cancer cases is rising, and as with most types of cancer, early detection is crucial as cases diagnosed at later stages are associated with significantly higher mortality rates. In this PhD project state of the art machine learning algorithms will be used to develop methodologies for the modelling of paediatric medulloblastoma. Different genomic data modalities, including the cutting-edge miRNA, will be investigated and combined towards developing robust next generation AI tools for early diagnosis of paediatric medulloblastoma as well as for the prediction of response to treatment therapies. Although previous studies have presented efforts towards this direction the early detection aspect as well as the modelling of the mechanism of the response to treatment therapies still remain open challenges.

Applicant background: Candidates must have a BSc/BEng in Computer Science, Electronic/Information Engineering, or related disciplines, with First or Upper Second Class (2:1) honours. It is desirable for candidates to have an MSc or MSc by Research in the above disciplines, with emphasis in background in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning. This project requires a strong interest in multidisciplinary research to investigate machine learning based methods to model genomic data.

Enquiries: Prof Iosif Mporas,   i.mporas@herts.ac.uk

Reference ADS8 - Designing an XR-Based Decision Support Tool for Public Health Intervention in Disaster and Environmental Health Contexts: Public health policy design often relies on complex data and abstract modelling, which can be difficult to communicate effectively to policymakers and communities—especially during crises. While machine learning and statistical tools offer predictive power, there remains a significant gap in translating these insights into accessible, actionable formats for stakeholder engagement and decision-making. This PhD project proposes the development of a practical extended reality (XR) application that integrates real-world health data and predictive analytics to create immersive, interactive simulations of public health scenarios. Critically, the project will address public health responses to natural disasters, including flooding, heatwaves, and droughts. The tool will allow policymakers, researchers, and the public to visualise the potential outcomes of health interventions—such as vaccination campaigns, urban planning for active transport, or pandemic containment strategies—within a realistic, spatially contextualised environment.

Applicant background: We are looking for applicants with a strong interest in applied technology for public good, ideally with backgrounds in: Extended Reality (XR), Human-Computer Interaction, or Game Development; Public Health, Health Informatics, Epidemiology, or Environmental Health; Data Science, Machine Learning, or Applied Statistics; Computer Science, Interaction Design, or Urban/Disaster Planning.

Enquiries: Dr. Salvatore Livatino, S.Livatino@herts.ac.uk