PhD Studentship: Development of Origami-paper eDNA Sensors for Real-time Surveillance of Freshwater Ecosystems

Start date: 29/09/2025   

Studentship funding 

Sponsored by the Leverhulme Trust and Cranfield University, this Connected Waters Leverhulme Doctoral programme studentship will cover the stipend (£19,237; tax free) and fees for up to 4 years for a home (UK) student. 

Fee status of eligible applicants: UK 

Duration of Award if full time preferred*:  4 years 

Duration of Award if part time preferred: Choose an item. 

1^st Supervisor: Dr Zhugen Yang    

2^nd Supervisor: Dr Robert Grabowski 

Opportunity Reference No: SWEE0279 

Main Content of Advertisement 

Cranfield University is excited to invite applications for a PhD studentship focused on developing and validating innovative origami-paper eDNA sensors with community scientists for the rapid detection of chemical and microbial contaminants in rivers. The studentship is funded by the Leverhulme Trust through the Connected Waters Leverhulme Doctoral Programme, which is supporting new research on human-environment interactions in freshwater ecosystems. The studentship covers fees and stipend for a home (UK) student. 

There is an urgent need for novel freshwater quality monitoring solutions to help mitigate the risks that contaminants pose to water security, human wellbeing, and biodiversity. This funded PhD studentship will work with conservation charities and citizen scientists to develop and validate innovative origami-paper eDNA sensors for the rapid detection of chemical and microbial contaminants in river water.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively within a dynamic team, utilizing cutting-edge technology to create user-friendly sensors for deployment by citizen scientists. The project will involve co-designing the sensors with public stakeholders to ensure usability and accuracy, as well as conducting field tests to validate their effectiveness. Additionally, the research will explore the economic viability of these sensors to enhance real-time data collection and improve monitoring practices, and the social factors that influence their uptake.

This studentship offers a unique opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research with practical applications, promoting community involvement in detecting chemical and biological contaminants and monitoring biodiversity. The successful candidate will benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, along with support from leading experts in Advanced Sensor technology and Environmental Assessment Facilities at Cranfield University.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. Ideal candidates should have a strong background in environmental science, biology, or a related field, along with experience in molecular techniques and fieldwork. Excellent communication skills and a passion for biodiversity conservation are essential. 

Funding 

To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be classified as a home student. We require that applicants are under no restrictions regarding how long they can stay in the UK. 

How to apply  

For further information please contact:
Name: Professor Zhugen Yang
Email: Zhugen.Yang@cranfield.ac.uk
Phone: +44 (0) 1234 758310 

To apply please click above 'Apply' Button

Keywords: water quality, pollution, sensors, rivers, freshwater, ecology

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