Marie-Sklodowska Curie Action Researchers: Doctoral Candidate

This full-time post is available from October 2026 to 30 September 2029 and includes enrolment in a PhD programme within the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy at the University of Exeter.

The position is funded by the INTRABRAIN – HEU – MSCA Doctoral Network (2024), with UK funding provided by UKRI under the Horizon Europe guarantee.

Salary and Benefits
The starting salary will be £33,951 (Grade E), depending on experience. In addition, the following allowances apply in line with MSCA requirements:

• Supplementary allowance: £3,300 per annum.
• Mobility allowance: £5,743 per annum.
• Family allowance (if applicable): £4,004 per annum (adjusted for UK cost of living).

Salary is paid in GBP and subject to annual cost-of-living review (no incremental progression). A tuition fee waiver is available for eligible candidates.

The Role
The successful candidate will undertake a PhD project titled:

“Wireless implantable device for combined optogenetic neurostimulation and oncolytic therapy.”

The project sits at the intersection of neurotechnology, bioelectronics, and cancer therapy, and forms part of the INTRABRAIN Doctoral Network.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing a wireless implantable bioelectronic device integrating optogenetic stimulation and therapeutic coordination.
• Developing optical stimulation systems targeting neural circuits around brain tumours.
• Building embedded electronics and wireless power/communication modules for miniaturised implants.
• Investigating synchronisation between neurostimulation and oncolytic virotherapy.
• Supporting preclinical validation in collaboration with international partners.

The candidate will work under the supervision of Dr Rupam Das (University of Exeter) and will complete an international secondment within the Doctoral Network.

About you

Applicants should:

• Hold (or be close to completing) a master’s degree in electrical/electronic engineering, biomedical engineering, physics, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrate strong communication skills and the ability to present complex research clearly.

Eligibility (MSCA Doctoral Network rules):

• Must not already hold a doctoral degree.
• Must not have resided or worked in the UK for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment.

Application Requirements

• Applications must be submitted as a single PDF (in English) and include:
• Application must contain the following documents, all provided in English.
• A completed DC application form.
• Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages).
• Cover letter (max 1 page): indicate your motivation to apply for these specific DC position and your skills that are specifically adapted to the chosen topic; providing support evidence to your arguments.
• Certificate of Masters Degree (or equivalent) with transcript records.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• Contact details of 2 precious supervisors of employers who can give recommendation letters.
• List of publications, if applicable.
• Manuscript of listed publications, if applicable.
• Work/research experience certificates, if applicable.

Certificates should be provided in original language with English translation where necessary.

Further Information
For informal enquiries, please contact: Dr Rupam Das – r.k.das@exeter.ac.uk.

Applicants are advised to review the full Job Description and Person Specification (available on the university's website, accessed by the 'Apply' button) before applying.

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