PhD Studentship: Smart Nutrient Sensor Networks Using Miniaturised Optical and Electrochemical Detection

1 month ago

Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

DoS:   Dr. Simon Ussher (Email: simon.ussher@plymouth.ac.uk)

2nd Supervisor: Dr. Angela Milne (Email: angela.milne@plymouth.ac.uk)

3rd Supervisor: Dr. Paul Davey (Email: P.Davey@plymouth.ac.uk)                    

4th Supervisor:  Malcolm Woodward (Email: emsw@pml.ac.uk) Plymouth Marine Laboratory

Project Partner: Rob Passmore, Additive Catchments

Applications are invited for a 3.5 years PhD studentship within the Environmental Intelligence doctoral training programme at the University of Plymouth, starting on 01 October 2024.

Project Description

Scientific background: Phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) are essential elements for life but excess quantities of fixed nutrients in catchments cause eutrophication, toxicity and affect catchment ecosystem function [1]. Dissolved ammonia (NH3) is a critical chemical parameter required by UK legislation [2], whereas P is often the growth limiting element in catchments, particularly in areas of high N (Nitrate Vulnerable Zones) [3]. Recent legal standards (e.g. Nutrient Neutrality Programme and Environment Act 2021) require nutrient emissions to be determined at catchment scale and concentration limits to be legally enforced. Hence, there is a demand for better spatial and temporal data from water quality monitoring networks [4] and application of emerging technology, including off-the shelf Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and novel miniaturised chemical sensors (nanomaterials, microfluidic spectrophotometric/fluorescence, fiber-optic, microelectrodes) [5-7]. As data flow increases in size and complexity, well designed systems-based approaches are needed to improve cost, efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, minimise computing requirements and support the deployment of sensing systems. Real-time data offers the opportunity for Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration, with the potential for predictive models for phosphate [8] and ammonia [9] from other water parameters, with the final goal of developing catchment digital twins [10].

Research methodology: Starting with commercial sensors (e.g. conductivity, pH), ion selective electrodes and liquid core waveguides (PO43- and NH4+) [11,12], the student will automate these using established interfaces developed at UoP [13]. Novel detection methods will be explored, including microfluidic spectrophotometry, fibre-optics, and microelectrodes for detection of PO43- and NH3-N (Co-S Woodward). Microcontroller engineering, optical detection and telemetry (Co-S Davey) will allow custom design, miniaturisation, data acquisition and fabrication of novel sensors [14,15]. Through the project partner, sensor data flow will be integrated with AI to develop and validate next-generation water monitoring solutions that interface with catchment management platforms.

Training: The student will receive tuition in environmental sensing, networks and data processing. Initial training in nutrient analysis and automation will be provided using existing sensors and established interfaces at UoP running on LabVIEW. The student will develop skills in big data analysis and programming (R and Python) alongside instruction in analytical quality assurance in ISO 9001 laboratories. Training in microcontroller engineering and fabrication of optical detectors (Co-S Davey) and expertise in sub-micromolar nutrient analysis and cutting-edge techniques (Co-S Woodward) will be offered, as well as training opportunities in AI and industry experience will be provided by project partner Additive Catchments.

Person specification:

We are looking for a graduate with practical hands-on skills with a will to develop knowledge and desirable skill set bridging physical and environmental science, analytical chemistry and engineering.

If you wish to discuss this project further informally, please contact Dr Simon Ussher, email simon.ussher@plymouth.ac.uk

For further information on Eligibility & Funding, please click on the links below: 

  • Eligibility
  • Funding

To apply, please click the 'Apply' button, above.

The closing date for applications on 26 April 2024.

The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes full ‘Home’ tuition fees plus a stipend

  • PhD Studentship: Smart Nutrient Sensor Networks Using Miniaturised Optical and Electrochemical Detection

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr. Simon Ussher (Email: )2nd Supervisor: Dr. Angela Milne (Email: )3rd Supervisor: Dr. Paul Davey (Email: ) 4th Supervisor: Malcolm Woodward (Email: ) Plymouth Marine LaboratoryProject Partner: Rob Passmore, Additive CatchmentsApplications are invited for a 3.5 years PhD studentship within the Environmental Intelligence doctoral training programme at...

  • PhD Studentship: Pancreatic Beta Cell Glucolipotoxicity – How Do Dietary Nutrients Turn Into Toxins?

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship in the Mitochondrial Biology group of Dr Charles Affourtit, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health. The studentship will start, 1 October 2024.Director of Studies: Charles Affourtit )2nd Supervisor: Natasha Hill )3rd Supervisor: Gary Smerdon )4th Supervisor: Lee Hutt )Project DescriptionType...

  • PhD Studentship: Glaucoma Detection by Community Optometrists – Improving Specificity With OCT Imaging

    2 days ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr. Mahesh Joshi )2nd Supervisor: Professor Paul Artes )3rd Supervisor: Dr. Asma Zahidi )Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship starting, 1 Oct 2024.Project DescriptionIn the UK, most patients with glaucoma are first identified by optometrists during routine eye examinations. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a powerful tool to...

  • Optical Design Engineer

    6 days ago

    Torquay, Devon, United Kingdom Redline Group Ltd Full time

    Are you looking for a new Optical Design Engineer - PhD opportunity based in the Torquay, Devon area? If you are, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an Optical Design Engineer - PhD based in Devon to join a global leading electronics company specialising in a range of niche markets. This presents the opportunity to work on the development of a range of...

  • Optical Design Engineer

    1 week ago

    Torquay, Devon, United Kingdom Redline Group Ltd Full time

    Are you looking for a new Optical Design Engineer - PhD opportunity based in the Torquay, Devon area? If you are, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an Optical Design Engineer - PhD based in Devon to join a global leading electronics company specialising in a range of niche markets. This presents the opportunity to work on the development of a range of...

  • PhD Studentship: Establishing the Effect of Microplastic and Nanoplastic Exposure on Inflammatory Bowel Disease

    3 weeks ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr Nathaniel Clark )2nd Supervisor: Dr Lee Hutt )3rd Supervisor: Dr Raul Bescos ) Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship. The studentship will start, 1 October 2024.Project Description Microplastics (

  • PhD Studentship: Establishing the Effect of Microplastic and Nanoplastic Exposure on Inflammatory Bowel Disease

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr Nathaniel Clark (nathaniel.clark@plymouth.ac.uk) 2nd Supervisor: Dr Lee Hutt (lee.hutt@plymouth.ac.uk) 3rd Supervisor: Dr Raul Bescos (raul.bescos@plymouth.ac.uk)  Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship. The studentship will start, 1 October 2024. Project Description  Microplastics (

  • PhD Studentship: Developing an Integrated Tool To Assess Soil Health in Agricultural Settings

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr Jennifer Rowntree (Email: )2nd Supervisor: Dr Claire Kelly (Email: )3rd Supervisor: Dr Mark Whiteside (Email: )Applications are invited for a 3.5 years PhD studentship within the Environmental Intelligence doctoral training programme at the University of Plymouth. The studentship will start on 01 October 2024. Project DescriptionScientific...

  • PhD Biological Sciences

    3 days ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr Oliver Tills )2nd Supervisor: Professor John Spicer )3rd Supervisor: Dr Manuela Truebano )4th Supervisor: Mr Ziad Ibbini Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1st October.Project DescriptionOrganismal development is an incredibly dynamic and sensitive process and for many species it is occurring in...

  • PhD Studentship: Investigation the Role of P62-dependent P-bodies in Models of Neurodegeneration

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr. Holly Stephenson )2nd Supervisor: Prof. Shouqing Luo )3rd Supervisor: Dr. Claudia Barros ) Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1st Oct 2024. Project DescriptionNeurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are a...

  • PhD Studentship: Investigation the Role of P62-dependent P-bodies in Models of Neurodegeneration

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr. Holly Stephenson (holly.stephenson@plymouth.ac.uk) 2nd Supervisor: Prof. Shouqing Luo (shouqing.luo@plymouth.ac.uk) 3rd Supervisor: Dr. Claudia Barros (claudia.barros@plymouth.ac.uk)  Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1st Oct 2024.   Project Description Neurodegenerative disorders including...

  • PhD Studentship: Exploring Immunosuppression in Glioblastoma via High-Throughput Genomic Screens

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    Director of study (DoS): Dr. Mahmoud Labib2nd Supervisor: Dr. Matt Banton3rd Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Oliver HanemannApplications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship.The studentship will start on October 1st, 2024. Project DescriptionOne major reason for treatment failure in glioblastoma is that tumour cells secrete several immunosuppressive factors...

  • PhD Studentship: Investigating the Role of Eye Movement in Scleral Growth

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr Daniela Oehring )2nd Supervisor: Dr Konstantin Glebov )3rd Supervisor: Dr Torsten Bossing )4th Supervisor: Adam Kyte )Applications are invited for a three-year full-time PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1st October 2024.Project DescriptionAre you fascinated by how our eyes work and eager to make a difference in the fight against vision...

  • PhD Studentship: Investigating the Role of Eye Movement in Scleral Growth

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr Daniela Oehring (daniela.oehring@plymouth.ac.uk) 2nd Supervisor: Dr  Konstantin Glebov (konstantin.glebov@plymouth.ac.uk) 3rd Supervisor: Dr Torsten Bossing (torsten.bossing@plymouth.ac.uk) 4th Supervisor: Adam Kyte (adam.kyte@plymouth.ac.uk) Applications are invited for a three-year full-time PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1st...

  • PhD Biomedical Sciences

    6 days ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    DoS: Dr Eve Kelland )2nd Supervisor: Professor David Parkinson ) Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1st October 2024.Project Description Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex neurological disorder with an unknown aetiology and multifaceted pathophysiology. Whilst understanding and therapeutics within this...

  • Optical Design Engineer

    2 days ago

    Torquay, Devon, United Kingdom Redline Group - Specialist Recruitment for Technology & Electronics Companies Full time

    Job Description Are you looking for a new Optical Design Engineer – PhD opportunity based in the Torquay, Devon area? If you are, an exciting opportunity has arisen for a Optical Design Engineer – PhD based in Devon to join a global leading electronics company specialising in a range of niche markets. This presents the opportunity to work on the...

  • PhD Biological Sciences – "Predicting developmental responses to environmental challenge"

    2 weeks ago

    Devon, United Kingdom University of Plymouth Full time

    Predicting developmental responses to environmental challengeDoS: Dr Oliver Tills )2nd Supervisor: Professor John Spicer )3rd Supervisor: Dr Manuela Truebano )4th Supervisor: Mr Ziad Ibbini Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1st October.Project DescriptionOrganismal development is an incredibly dynamic...

  • Optical Design Engineer

    1 week ago

    Torquay, Devon, United Kingdom Redline Group Ltd Full time

    Are you looking for a new Optical Design Engineer - PhD opportunity based in the Torquay, Devon area? If you are, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an Optical Design Engineer - PhD based in Devon to join a global leading electronics company specialising in a range of niche markets. This presents the opportunity to work on the development of a range of...

  • Optical Design Engineer

    6 days ago

    Torquay, Devon, United Kingdom Redline Group Ltd Full time

    Are you looking for a new Optical Design Engineer - PhD opportunity based in the Torquay, Devon area? If you are, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an Optical Design Engineer - PhD based in Devon to join a global leading electronics company specialising in a range of niche markets. This presents the opportunity to work on the development of a range of...

  • Senior Optical Engineer

    1 month ago

    Devon, United Kingdom IC Resources Full time

    An exciting opportunity for a Senior Optical Engineer in Devon to join a global photonics company that cover a broad range of functions in engineering and manufacturing. The Senior Optical Engineer will be expected to design and develop optical and fibre-optic lasers and amplifiers. PhD in a relevant field For further information or to send in...