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How to get a PhD in chocolate at the University of Cambridge


This should be quite a sweet degree indeed: a multidisciplinary Ph.D. on chocolate from the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom.

In a post on its website, the university said it is offering an "industrial, fully-funded 3.5-year PhD studentship" to study the fundamentals of heat-stable chocolate.

According to the university, the studentship is based in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, co-supervised by Prof. Malcolm Bolton (Geotechnical Engineering), Prof. Eugene Terentjev (Soft Matter Physics) and Dr Ian Wilson (Chemical Engineering).

"The project will investigate the factors which allow chocolate, which has a melting point close to that of the human body, to remain solid and retain qualities sought by consumers when it is stored and sold in warm climates. The project sponsor has existing technology in this field and the project will develop a fundamental understanding of the area which extends beyond the industrial need," it said.

It added the project is mainly experimental and will employ rheological and analytical methods from a range of engineering and physical science disciplines.

Also, it said theoretical aspects will require good mathematical skills.

Supervisors have extensive experience in studying soft solids, including foods.

But before you start applying, know that the offer isn't for everyone: the university indicated the studentship is for European nationals only.

"Due to funding regulations, the studentship is only available to EU nationals," it said.

Requirements

Applicants must have the following qualifications:


*Experience in experimental investigations.
*At least four years of study at University level and a high 2:1 or equivalent degree in a relevant discipline  such as physics, chemistry, materials science or engineering. Holders of a non-UK degree may consult here for information on what equates to a 2.1.
*Able to meet the graduate admissions entrance requirements of the University of Cambridge.


Candidates who meet all of the above criteria will be expected to formally apply for admission on the university's website. Prospective students have until Aug. 29 to apply for the course. — Joel Locsin/TJD, GMA News

 
source: gmanetwork.com