PhD in Development of Nanoengineered Wireless Graphene Sensors for Real-Time Neurochemical monitoring

Project details

Objective: This project aims to develop a wireless, nanoengineered graphene-based biosensor for real-time dopamine (DA) detection. The wireless design of the sensor aims to enable chronic monitoring and facilitate seamless integration into dynamic neuromodulation systems for closed-loop therapeutic interventions. By leveraging graphene’s exceptional electrochemical properties with advanced nanoengineering techniques, the project seeks to achieve a DA biosensor with superior sensitivity, selectivity, and stability, optimised for use in complex biological environments.  

Background: Advancements in biosensor technology are at the forefront of modern biomedical research, addressing the growing need for precise, real-time monitoring of biomolecules and overcoming critical challenges in therapeutic interventions. DA is a key neuromodulator, a chemical messenger that regulates and fine-tunes the activity of neurons, playing a vital role in numerous physiological processes such as reward, motivation, and motor control, as well as in pathological conditions like Parkinson's disease and addiction. However, real-time, wireless detection of DA with high precision remains a challenge. Existing techniques lack dynamic measurement capabilities and real-time feedback for therapeutic applications. Graphene’s tuneable electronic properties, further enhanced through nanoengineering, make it an ideal candidate for developing high-performance sensors. By integrating wireless capabilities, the device can achieve untethered, continuous monitoring of DA, improving its potential for clinical and research applications.  

Methodology: Task 1.1: Synthesis and Characterisation of Nanoengineered Graphene (M1–M20) Multilayer graphene will be synthesised by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on nickel substrates, followed by its transfer to flexible polyimide substrates. Nanoengineering strategies will focus on enhancing DA detection through:

• Defect Nanoengineering: Introducing defect-rich regions using electron beam lithography and plasma treatments with oxygen and fluorine species.
• Doping Nanoengineering: Deposition of doped nanoplatelets (e.g., Ni-doped V₂O₅, CeO₂ nanoparticles, boron/nitrogen-doped quantum dots) to create hotspots for enhanced electron transfer. Characterisation techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM), will confirm the structural and morphological properties of the nanoengineered graphene. Electrochemical analysis using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) will determine sensitivity and redox behavior, focusing on DA detection under controlled conditions. Task 1.2: Integration of Wireless Functionality (M7–M30) A flexible substrate will integrate the graphene-based electrode with wireless electronic components for real-time signal transmission. The design will include:
• Implantable antenna design: Developing a dual band antenna for efficient wireless communication and power transmission simultaneously.
• Signal Conditioning: Embedding low-power electronics for amplifying and encoding the DA oxidation current into a transmittable signal. 
• Wireless Data Transmission: Establishing reliable signal communication with an external receiver for real-time monitoring of DA concentrations. Wireless performance will be optimised to ensure stable operation in various test environments, such as DA solutions with complex matrices. Task 1.3: Selectivity and Interference Analysis (M19– M42) The selectivity of the sensor will be tested in solutions containing DA and common interferants such as uric acid (UA), ascorbic acid (AA), norepinephrine, serotonin, and DA metabolites (e.g., HVA, DOPAC). This step will confirm the sensor’s capability to distinguish DA from other compounds. Wireless signal stability will also be assessed during interference tests to ensure uninterrupted communication. 

Please direct project specific enquiries to: Dr Rupam Das - r.k.das@exeter.ac.uk or Prof Monica Craciun - M.F.Craciun@exeter.ac.uk Please ensure you read the entry requirements for the potential programme you are applying for. To Apply for this project please click the 'Apply' button   

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