Supervisor: Dr Collin Sones
Closing date: 30 September 2027
Funding: Competition Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
The project explores the development of microfluidics-based sensors or diagnostic devices that are affordable, user-friendly and provide and effective testing strategy (widely-adopted during COVID-19 for informed decision-making) for rapid testing at the point-of-care which could include a hospital bedside or a care/nursing home, or in an ambulance or at home.
The wider aim of the project is to use a laser-based direct-write technique developed and patented by our group to pattern microfluidic devices in paper for the creation of the diagnostic sensors or tests.
Our innovative laser-based manufacturing technique allows the creation of custom-designed fluid flow paths within porous materials such as paper, and when used in combination with bio-chemical assays provides a route to producing sensors with much desired functionalities, including multiplexing, semi-quantification, and enhanced sensitivity.
This research which will happen in collaboration with clinical researcher is highly multi-disciplinary, which not only draws upon expertise in laser physics/engineering and microfluidics, but also vital knowledge of biochemistry and medicine.
Supervisor: Dr Collin Sones
The objective of the PhD is the development of paper-based tests such as lateral flow tests (such as those widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic) for simultaneous detection of multiple disease-specific biomarkers which help early-stage detection of the targeted diseases or conditions – examples of these include tuberculosis, sepsis, cytokine storm and urinary tract infections.
The project is mainly experimentally oriented and will provide opportunities to train across disciplines through working within different laboratories (laser- and bio-labs with different systems and instrumentation and procedures) and locations (universities, central governmental labs or NHS hospitals) within UK and outside.
It will also provide valuable learning opportunities relating to impact awareness and outreach to lay audience.
We are seeking to enrol individuals enthusiastic about learning across the diversely different disciplines and contributing as an effective team player.
Entry requirements
A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent.
Fees and funding
We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.
Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.
Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.
Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.
How to apply
You need to:
- choose programme type (Research), 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- select Full time or Part time
- search for programme PhD ORC (7097)
- add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application
Applications should include:
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 academic references
- degree transcripts and certificates to date
- English language qualification (if applicable)
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
For questions about applying, doctoralcollege-admissions@soton.ac.uk.
Project leader
For an initial conversation, cls@orc.soton.ac.uk.
The School of Optoelectronics (ORC) is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.