APEX Award PhD Studentship: Listen to the Cell Breathe: Investigating Viral Infection in Real-Time with Nano-Vibration Detection and Super-Resolution Imaging

A fully funded 3-year PhD studentship is available from 1st October 2025 in the School of Computer Science and Engineering at Bangor University. The project investigates viral infection in real-time using nano-vibration detection and super-resolution imaging.

Funded by the Royal Society APEX Award (with support from the Royal Society, British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering, and Leverhulme Trust) and Bangor University’s Wynne Humphrey Davies Fund, the project will develop advanced nano-imaging and nano-sensing technologies, enhanced by AI-driven analysis. It aims to uncover new insights into viral mechanisms, supporting applications in diagnostics, biotechnology, and phage research.

The student will join a vibrant research environment in the School of Computer Science and Engineering, working closely with the School of Natural Sciences. This is a unique cross-disciplinary opportunity combining photonics, AI, and biological sciences.

Funding
The studentship covers:

• Full UK tuition fees
• A tax-free stipend (UKRI standard rate)
• Support for training, equipment, and conference travel

Supervisors

• Prof. Zengbo Wang, School of Computer Science and Engineering
• Dr. Ellie Jameson, School of Natural Sciences

Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold at least a 2:1 Bachelor’s Honours degree (or equivalent) in:

• Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related subject

Desirable experience includes:

• Nano-imaging or sensing methods
• Optical or vibration detection technologies
• AI/machine learning for imaging and sensing
• Background in biology, microbiology, or biomedical sciences

Applicants must demonstrate excellent English language skills and strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Eligibility

Open to UK applicants only. Candidates must have been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least three years prior to the start of the award, with no restrictions on their right to remain.

How to Apply

Apply via Bangor University’s online portal via the above ‘Apply’ button.

Your application must include:

• The project title and main supervisor’s name (Prof. Zengbo Wang)
• An up-to-date CV
• A personal statement (max 500 words) outlining your motivation and suitability
• A research proposal (max 1500 words) aligned with the project
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Two academic references (referees must be aware of the deadline)

Key Dates

• Application deadline: 29th September 2025
• Interviews: 30th September 2025
• Start date: 1st October 2025
  Late applications may be considered in exceptional cases.

Contact

For informal enquiries, please contact:

• Prof. Zengbo Wang – z.wang@bangor.ac.uk
• Dr. Ellie Jameson – e.jameson@bangor.ac.uk

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