Pharmaceutical powder processing
This project aims to identify critical material attributes and critical process parameters for die filling of pharmaceutical powders during tablet manufacturing. Specific tasks for this project include but are not limited to:
- Critical literature review to understand the background, the state-of-the-art and the challenges, and to identify the knowledge gap
- Understand how cohesion of pharmaceutical formulations affect die filling performance
- Explore the influence of powder permeability on die filling behaviour.
Start date
1 January 2022Duration
36 monthsApplication deadline
Funding source
Alkermes, USAFunding information
Funding for this project is available to applicants of all nationalities. 100% of tuition fees will be covered, plus a stipend of £15,285 per year.
Supervised by
About
This project aims to identify critical material attributes and critical process parameters for die filling of pharmaceutical powders during tablet manufacturing. Specific tasks for this project include but not limited to undertake critical literature review to understand the background, the state-of-the-art and the challenges, and to identify the knowledge gap; to carry out experimental investigation to understand how cohesion of pharmaceutical formulations affect die filling performance, and to explore the influence of powder properties and process conditions on powder flow behaviour during pharmaceutical tablet manufacturing.
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Formulation and productsEligibility criteria
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who holds a master degree or equivalent in Engineering, pharmaceutical technology or a closely-related discipline, with a keen interest in particle technology and pharmaceutical engineering. The candidate should be a good team player and can engage in collaboration with good oral and written communication skills. Previous experience or some knowledge in pharmaceutics and powder technology are desirable bit not essential as training will be provided.
IELTS requirements: IELTS test (test not older than 2 years): 6.5 or above (or equivalent) with at least 6.0 in each band or equivalent.
UK, EU and Overseas students are welcome to apply.
How to apply
In the first instance, please email a copy of CV, and/or transcripts to Prof. Charley Wu.
Application deadline
Contact details
Our aim is to develop science-based predictive models, design tools and innovative manufacturing processes for formulated products. This is underpinned by our active research in particulate materials manufacturing, multiphase flow, advanced numerical modelling using coupled discrete element methods with computational fluid dynamics (DEM-CFD) and finite element modelling (FEM), process modelling and optimisation, and measurements and characterisation using advanced techniques.

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