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University: Loughborough University
Location: Loughborough, United Kingdom
Department: Chemical Engineering
Supervisor: Professor Anna K. Croft
Application Deadline: August 2, 2026
Project Overview
Ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DES) are emerging as innovative drug delivery systems in modern pharmaceutical research. These ionic solvent formulations can enable effective transdermal drug delivery, allowing medicines to penetrate the skin with high efficiency while maintaining a low risk of skin irritation.
Compared with traditional drug delivery approaches, these systems offer several advantages, including:
- Non-invasive drug administration
- Easy application and controlled termination
- Improved patient compliance
- Avoidance of first-pass metabolism associated with oral drugs
Some ionic solvent formulations also enable targeted drug delivery, using biological pathways to transport therapeutic compounds directly to specific sites in the body. Despite these advances, the molecular mechanisms that determine why certain ionic solvents perform better for drug delivery remain poorly understood.
Research Focus
This PhD project will explore the molecular structure and behaviour of medically relevant ionic solvents and how these structures influence pharmaceutical performance. The research aims to develop next-generation drug delivery agents with improved stability, safety, and therapeutic efficiency.
Key research methods will include:
Computational Chemistry and Molecular Modelling
- Molecular dynamics simulations to study ionic solvent structures
- Investigation of molecular interactions affecting drug transport
Chemometrics and Data Analysis
- Data-driven analysis of solvent properties
- Identification of structural patterns related to drug stability and efficacy
Drug Delivery Design Principles
- Establishing design rules for advanced ionic solvent drug carriers
- Understanding the relationship between molecular structure and macroscopic pharmaceutical performance
Research Environment and Collaboration
The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary research team at Loughborough University and collaborate with researchers at the University of Mississippi.
As part of the doctoral programme, the PhD student will benefit from:
- Training in computational chemistry and molecular simulation
- Access to advanced research facilities and doctoral college resources
- Opportunities to collaborate with international academic and industry partners
- Development of valuable transferable skills in research, data science, and innovation
Graduates of this programme will be well prepared for careers in pharmaceutical research, data science, biotechnology, or academia.
Candidate Profile
Applicants should typically have:
- A Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline
- Interest in computational chemistry, molecular modelling, or drug delivery systems
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Good written and spoken English communication skills
As this is a multidisciplinary project, additional training will be provided where necessary.
Application Process
Stage 1 – Initial Contact
Interested candidates should first contact Professor Anna K. Croft via email at [email protected] and provide:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- A reference letter
- Confirmation of funding source
Informal discussions about the project are welcome.
Stage 2 – Formal Application
After the initial discussion, shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a formal application through the university application portal.
Applicants must:
- Select Chemical Engineering as the programme
- Quote the reference number CG-AC-2521
- Submit all required supporting documents to complete the application
This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in ionic solvents, computational chemistry, and advanced pharmaceutical drug delivery systems, helping shape the future of precision medicine and therapeutic technologies.
Apply now at: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/research-applications/
