About the project
The Optoelectronic Research Centre (ORC) is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on developing the next generation of Lab-on-Chip (LOC) ocean sensors using femtosecond laser writing technology.
This innovative project will enable the miniaturization of LOC systems, making them compatible with smaller, more compact Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) for real-time, in situ environmental monitoring.
Currently, LOC sensors are crucial for measuring essential ocean parameters such as nitrate, phosphate, silicate, iron, and pH. However, the current systems are relatively large and not optimized for deployment on miniaturized platforms, limiting their flexibility in marine research applications.
The project aims to advance LOC technology by creating more compact and integrated sensor systems. Femtosecond laser writing will allow for the precise fabrication of LOC sensors that are smaller, more robust, and highly efficient, making them ideal for use in harsh marine environments. These sensors will be capable of detecting multiple analytes with high precision, allowing for continuous, long-term monitoring in the deep sea.
The project will also involve deploying and testing the sensors in real-world ocean environments using AUVs, offering the opportunity to contribute to innovative solutions for oceanographic research and environmental monitoring.
This PhD position offers full funding, including a stipend and tuition fee coverage, and is conducted in collaboration with the National Oceanography Centre (NOC).
This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of oceanographic sensor technology, with direct applications in environmental monitoring and marine research. The successful candidate will work closely with experts in the field, contributing to the development of state-of-the-art LOC sensors for marine applications.
