PhD Studentship - Towards Scalable eDNA Monitoring: Engineering Microfluidic Systems for Biodiversity Assessment

Project advert

In conservation management, it is vital to understand and determine the species present within an environment. However, the detection of aquatic species can be challenging when species are difficult to observe. Conventional monitoring can be time-consuming and require a high level of training, while eDNA (environmental DNA) analysis can be expensive, time-consuming, and require highly trained scientists. This interdisciplinary PhD will make eDNA analyses easier and quicker to implement by developing a sustainable, paper-based Lab-on-a-Chip (LOC) device that is simple to use and can provide rapid, low-cost detection of eDNA for aquatic biodiversity monitoring.

The successful candidate will design and fabricate a cellulose-based LOC capable of water processing, eDNA capture, and quantitative species detection for in-field use. This innovative approach will miniaturise complex molecular workflows, enabling field-based, real-time species monitoring without the requirement for laboratory infrastructure. Validation of the technology will involve liaison with leading conservation organisations, including the Mersey Gateway Environmental Trust.

Project aims and objectives

The aim of project: To develop a novel, miniaturised LOC for high throughout, low-cost, eDNA detection for species detection. In order to achieve this aim several objectives must be met, those being:

• Development of water processing ‘module’, through production of ‘smart-paper’ for lysis and capture of aquatic eDNA, and manufacture of sustainable cartridges for pressure-driven flow to allow processing of large volumes.
• Design of hydrogel-based LAMP assays which will be specific for species of interest
• Development of battery-powered integrated heating element suitable for LAMP assays
• Validation studies compared to conventional survey methods and mapping of key target species in the environment in collaboration with our conservation partners. 

Funding

Only home students can apply only. Home tuition fees will be covered for the duration of the 3-year award, which is £5,006 for the year 2025/26. 

The student will receive a standard stipend payment for the duration of the award. These payments are set at a level determined by the UKRI, currently £20,780 for the academic year 2025/26.

Specific requirements of the candidate

Essential:

• BSc/MSc/MRes in a Natural Science discipline such as Biology, Biotechnology, or Conservation. Applicants from Engineering or Chemistry backgrounds are also encouraged.
• Practical experience in at least one of the following: design, manufacture, and operation of Lab-on-a-Chip devices; DNA analysis; work with aquatic vertebrates; screen-printing; or electrical engineering.
• BSc applicants should demonstrate scientific independence, e.g. completion of a project beyond their undergraduate course, submission of a publication, or presentation at an external conference.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr Samuel James Rowley-Neale (S.rowley-neale@mmu.ac.uk) or Dr Kirsty Shaw (K.shaw@mmu.ac.uk ) for an informal discussion.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full time PhD in Natural Sciences.

Please complete the Doctoral Project Applicant Form, and include your CV and a covering letter to demonstrate how your skills and experience map to the aims and objectives of the project, the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest.

Please upload these documents in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal.

Applications closing date: 9 March 2026

Expected start date: October 2026

Please quote the reference: SciEng-SRN-2026-27-Engineering Microfluidic Systems

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