About this role
Project Link: Microfluidic platforms for airborne pathogen analysis in a clinical setting | Project Opportunities | PhD | University of Leeds
Number of positions: 1
Funding: Joint School of Civil Engineering/Earth and Environment Studentship, underwriting this UKRI Research England: Expanding Excellence in England (E3) Research Grant. The studentship covers UK-home rated tuition fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant matching UKRI rates (currently £20,780 in 2025/26) for 3.5 years.
Lead Supervisor’s full name & email address
Dr. Mark Tarn: [email protected]
Co-Supervisor’s full name and email address
Dr. Marco-Felipe King: [email protected]
Dr. Louise Fletcher: [email protected]
Project summary
The monitoring of bioaerosols, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and pollen, is of great importance for human health and our environment, as highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Infection risks can be reduced through aerobiome monitoring or through intelligent design of indoor air flows and ventilation, particularly in high-risk environments such as hospitals and transport hubs. There is a need for rapid detection of bioaerosols, both to identify hazards early and to evaluate mitigation strategies. However, traditional laboratory workflows are slow, laborious, and require skilled personnel. While real-time monitors are emerging, they remain expensive and are still being evaluated for many bioaerosol types, limiting their widespread deployment. Miniaturised, low-cost sensors that integrate sampling and analysis offer opportunities for reducing workflow while enabling scalable networks.
Please state your entry requirements plus any necessary or desired background
A first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline.
This PhD is perfect for candidates with a strong background in analytical science, aerosol science, engineering, physics, biology, or a related field, and a keen interest in developing transformative technologies for real-world applications.
Subject Area: Civil & Structural Engineering