To celebrate the University's research successes, the University of Hull is offering one UK/EU PhD Scholarship, or International Fees Bursary for candidates with a 1^st, 2(i), or equivalent, applying for the following project

Closing date 11th January 2013. Studentships will start in September 2013 

• Dr Kevin Paulson, K.Paulson@hull.ac.uk, 01482 465118, Dept. of Engineering.
• Dr Ian Bell, I.M.Bell@hull.ac.uk, 01482 466381, Dept. of Engineering.
• Dr Jay Wadhawan, J.Wadhawan, 01482 466354, Dept. of Chemistry

Since the early 1990 the University of Hull has carried out extensive research into the fundamental underlying science that makes micro fluidic lab-on-a-chip (LoaC) devices attractive technology. This has lead to significant developments in the fields of chemistry and biology and in the past few years the group has focused more on system and process integration, manufacturability, diagnostics and exploiting the biomimetic aspects of micro fluidic devices with a particular emphasis being place on biomedical/clinical applications

Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) involves measuring the complex electrical impedance of a sample across a range of frequencies and from these measurements, deducing material properties. There is increasing interest in applying EIS to biological tissue to determine properties such as the viability of transplant organs. University of Hull staff developed the analysis method known as GRIME which transforms the impedance spectrum into a spectrum of dielectric relaxation times, which can then be linked to physical properties of cell walls. Department of Engineering staff are currently applying the analysis techniques to the study of EIS data acquired form heart tissue by the University of Heidelberg.

This project will translate the EIS measurement methods developed at Heidelberg to LoaC scales, and demonstrate the robustness of measurements of dielectric relaxation time spectra on tissue. Miniaturisation requires the balancing of conflicting constraints i.e. maintaining electrical connection with the sample while separating the effects of the electrode from those of the sample. However, greater miniaturisation also has large benefits as measurements become less invasive and ultimately, implantable devices become practicable. Electromagnetic modelling of the LoaC device will be required along with an experimental program to separate the effects of the equipment from those of the sample under test.  Further work with parallel projects will aim to link EIS measurements to the physical properties of the tissue.

To apply for this post please click 'Apply Online' below.

A full-time UK/EU PhD Scholarship will include fees at the 'home/EU' student rate and maintenance (£13,590 in 2013/14, subject to final confirmation) for three years, depending on satisfactory progress. Full-time International Fee PhD Studentships will include full fees at the International student rate for three years, dependant on satisfactory progress, but with no living expenses.

PhD students at the University of Hull follow modules for research and transferable skills development and gain a Masters level Certificate, or Diploma, in Research Training, in addition to their research degree.

Successful applicants will be informed of the award by 29^th March 2013.

Scholarships are not only for the smart students. Anyone can get scholarships

Spread the word to help others. Click share now!!