PhD Studentship on Printed Ingestible Sensors and Systems for Sustainability

This fully funded position focuses on the development of sustainable ingestible medical devices. Most current ingestible devices are single-use, plastic-encased systems with embedded electronics that are flushed post-use. The successful candidate will investigate new manufacturing approaches and application of smart materials to achieve similar or enhanced functionality with reduced environmental impact. The project will involve the design and fabrication of one or more proof-of-concept devices that will serve as exemplars of low-waste or biodegradable alternatives to conventional ingestible technologies.

The candidate will work as a member of the Intelli-Ingest Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Networks. The Intelli-Ingest network is coordinated by the Biorobotics Institute of Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna in Pisa, Italy, and includes 4 beneficiaries and 6 associated partners. Further details about the consortium can be found here: https://www.intelli-ingest.com/

The PhD position is hosted by the University of Birmingham, with supervision by Dr Gerard Cummins. Candidates will receive a world-class research education alongside professional training in transferable skills, entrepreneurship, and public engagement. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for careers in academia, industry, or clinical innovation. Key training features include enrolment in a leading UK doctoral programme, supervision by recognised experts, participation in network-wide workshops, summer schools, and conferences, secondments to industry and clinical environments.

The candidate should have some knowledge of microfabrication techniques, a strong interest in medical device development and clinical translation, excellent communication and teamwork skills, motivation to engage with interdisciplinary and international partners, a commitment to sustainable innovation in healthcare.

Interested applicants must contact Dr Cummins before being invited to submit a full application by sending their CV and degree transcripts (in English) to him. Candidates who have not contacted Dr Cummins prior to submitting an application will not be considered for this position.

Funding notes:

This position is funded under the UKRI Horizon Europe Guarantee and any candidate must meet the following criteria:

1. Hold (or be near completion of) a Master’s degree in microengineering, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering or similar discipline.
2. Not yet hold a PhD
3. Not have resided or worked in the UK for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment.
4. Be available to begin full-time in September 2025
5. Have good English language skills

The successful candidate will get a Monthly living allowance of €3,400 (gross, adjusted for UK cost of living), a Mobility allowance: €600/month, a Family allowance: €660/month (if applicable).

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