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PhD Studentship: Liquid-Borne Microparticle Detection and Characterisation Using Optical Techniques

Overview

  • Qualification type: PhD
  • Subject area: Liquid-borne microparticle detection and characterisation using optical techniques
  • Location/Campus: College Lane Campus, Hatfield
  • Start date: November 2024
  • Closing application date: 31 September 2024
  • Duration: 3.5 years, full-time

Project outline

The ability to interrogate particles suspended in water offers promise for developing real-time detection techniques for water-borne pathogens and microplastics. These techniques can help monitor the environment to prevent exposure to harmful bio-particles (e.g. cryptosporidium) as well as providing quantitative data on the presence of pollutants.

This project aims to develop an apparatus for the positive detection of specific pollutants and microplastics suspended in water, with potential applications in research, environmental monitoring, defence, security, health, and agriculture. Combining recent developments in low-cost ultraviolet LED technology, with custom optics, high-speed image capture of elastically and inelastically scattered light, and microfluidic sample delivery, this technique will provide hitherto unprecedented information on individual microparticles in water.

Following a review of existing technologies, this project aims to build the apparatus with support existing members of the Particle Instruments & Diagnostics research group, and assess the performance against target pathogens and simulants.

The successful project will provide new capability for in-field water analysis with broad impact in multiple sectors.

This studentship will be run in partnership with the University of Cranfield, a key player in aerosol detection and characterisation. It is expected that the project will be partly taking place at Cranfield University, providing access to cutting edge facilities and a depth of expertise.

Supervisors

Entry requirements

Essential

  • A first or upper-second-class degree in Physics, Biochemistry, or a relevant physical or natural sciences-related subject.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and manage time independently to meet deadlines.
  • Excellent oral and written English communication skills.
  • Highly self-motivated to pursue a full-time research programme.
  • Good problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Well organised and able to work independently.

Desirable (non-essential)

  • A Masters (MSc/MEng) degree or experience relevant to the research project.
  • Experience with experimental methods in science or engineering.
  • Experience with microfabrication technique and clean-room processes
  • Knowledge in genome sequencing
  • A desire to be part of a team exploring multidisciplinary questions in an emerging area of science and engineering.

Eligibility

The studentship is open to UK nationals and international candidates.

How to apply

All applicants should email the following documents:

  • A completed application form
  • Two academic references - to be send direct from the referee to the Doctoral College
  • Copies of qualification certificates and transcripts

For international applicants

  • English Language qualifications (if applicable). International students from countries where English is not the official first language should have a minimum IELTS score of at 6.5 or equivalent. This could be waived if you have already studied in the UK or in a mainly English speaking country such as the USA or Australia and hold a degree from one of those countries.

Please send completed applications via email to the Doctoral College using the following format in the email subject line: “Liquid-borne microparticle detection and characterisation using optical techniques”.

Funding information

The successful candidate will receive a tax-free annual stipend of £19,237 and a fee waiver.