PhD Studentship: Wireless Implantable Micro-Coil for Precise Control of Neuronal Excitability

Location: Department of Engineering, Streatham Campus, Exeter.

About the Award: The University of Exeter’s Department of Engineering invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship starting on 23 September 2024. The studentship covers Home or International tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend of at least £19,237 for 3.5 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study. The student will be based in the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy at the Streatham Campus in Exeter.

International Applicants: Please note, international applicants will need to cover the costs of a student visa, healthcare surcharge, and other relocation expenses.

Project Description:

This PhD project involves the development of wireless implantable micro-coil technology for precise and graded control of neuronal excitability through magnetic stimulation. This interdisciplinary research lies at the intersection of electronic engineering, neuroscience, and materials science and aims to advance neuromodulation technologies for novel therapeutic strategies targeting neurological disorders.

Background: Neuromodulation is an emerging field in both clinical and research settings, offering promising approaches to treat neurological and psychiatric conditions. While traditional methods like deep brain stimulation (DBS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) have shown effectiveness, they often lack the precision needed for more complex therapeutic interventions.

Recent advancements in magnetothermal approaches have demonstrated potential but come with risks due to heating. This project proposes an innovative approach using wireless implantable micro-coils, which generate localised magnetic fields within targeted brain regions, offering a non-thermal and highly controlled alternative. The precise tuning of these magnetic fields could enable customisable therapeutic interventions, opening new avenues in neuromodulation.

Project Aims:

The PhD project aims to:

• Design and model micro-coils.
• Develop a wireless system and fabricate micro-coils.
• Characterise the effects of magnetic fields.
• Conduct experimental testing and validation

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