Postgraduate research project

Developing next-generation marine sensors using intracavity absorption spectroscopy for advanced ocean monitoring

Funding
Fully funded (UK and international)
Type of degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Entry requirements
2:1 honours degree
View full entry requirements
Faculty graduate school
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Closing date

About the project

This exciting PhD project focuses on advancing single-wavelength intracavity absorption spectroscopy for marine sensing. 

This cutting-edge technique, proven for hydrocarbon detection, will be optimized to detect specific analytes or pollutants. Key aspects include:

  • designing sensor materials and ensuring compatibility with permeable membranes
  • adapting sensors for varying environmental conditions like temperature, water type, and depth
  • integrating sensors with sea vehicles considering payload size, depth, and battery constraints
  • addressing cross-sensitivity to enhance detection accuracy

You will join a multidisciplinary team within the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) and the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), collaborating with leading industry partners and researchers from Imperial College London. 

Your work will combine theoretical modeling of light-membrane interactions with hands-on sensor fabrication (ORC) and testing/calibration (NOC). 

A specific focus will be on developing selective membranes to expand sensor capabilities.

Additionally, you will have the opportunity to engage with Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute (SMMI), broadening your research scope and connections.