[100% fees covered and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate). Additional project costs provided.]

PhD Studentship in Bio-Electronics – Localising Invisible Breast Cancers During Surgery at Newcastle University offers a unique opportunity for a highly motivated candidate to contribute to the development of novel micro-electronic tags for accurate excision of breast cancer. This fully funded studentship covers 100% tuition fees and provides a generous tax-free annual living allowance of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate), with additional project costs supported by EPSRC.

The research project addresses a critical challenge in breast cancer surgery: the localisation of invisible tumours. Current clinical practice involves the insertion of RFID or magnetic seed devices into tumours to guide surgeons during excision. However, the size and delivery of existing RFID tags present difficulties for both clinicians and patients. This PhD project aims to design and fabricate innovative, miniaturised wireless localisation devices using advanced microfabrication techniques, with in vitro testing and close collaboration with consultant radiologists and surgeons from the Gateshead Breast Unit to ensure clinical safety and performance.

As a student, you will work within engineering cleanrooms, gaining hands-on experience in device design, fabrication, and testing. The project is interdisciplinary, combining elements of biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, and medical science. You will be supported by a supervisory team including Dr. Mathew Barraclough, Prof. Anthony O’Neill, and Dr. Simon Lowes, who bring expertise in device engineering and clinical translation.

Eligibility highlights: Applicants should hold at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or international equivalent) in electronic engineering, physics, or a related discipline. Strong practical skills, enthusiasm for biomedical research, and the ability to work independently are essential. Experience with electromagnetism, COMSOL, microfabrication, and PCB design is desirable but not required. Excellent analytical, verbal, and written communication skills are mandatory. A Masters qualification is not required if you have a minimum 2:1 degree or can demonstrate equivalent experience. Non-native English speakers must provide an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all sub-skills). International applicants may need ATAS clearance for visa purposes.

Application window: The studentship is open for applications until 18 February 2026, with a start date of 1 October 2026. Only one award is available.

How to apply: Interested candidates should click the 'Apply' button on the official Newcastle University funding page. Prepare your academic transcripts, CV, and evidence of English language proficiency if applicable. If you have alternative qualifications or require an exemption, contact the supervisors for guidance. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before submitting your application.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a cutting-edge research project at Newcastle University, contribute to impactful biomedical innovation, and develop advanced skills in device engineering and clinical research.