PhD Studentship in Circulating Tumour DNA Preparation, Bioengineering & Molecular Biology (UK/Home Students)

Heriot-Watt University is urgently seeking a UK/Home PhD candidate for a funded studentship in technologies for circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) preparation, with a focus on bioengineering, molecular biology, and related areas. The project aims to develop novel methods and devices to process, detect, and characterise circulating molecular biomarkers, particularly for oncological applications. The successful candidate will work on improving ctDNA enrichment and analysis sensitivity, which is crucial for non-invasive cancer diagnosis and monitoring. The student will be co-supervised by Prof Maïwenn Kersaudy Kerhoas and Prof Nick Leslie (Heriot-Watt University), and Dr Valerie Taly (METHYS Dx/Univ. Paris Cité/CNRS), with planned industrial collaboration in Paris. The research will be based at Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh campus, known for its multidisciplinary environment and proximity to the city centre. The project is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, offering a 3.5-year studentship with an annual tax-free stipend of approximately £20,000, and tuition coverage for UK/Home students. Applicants must meet UKRI eligibility for Home student status, typically requiring UK nationality or settled/pre-settled status. Candidates should hold a good degree in Engineering, Physics, Biology, or a related field, ideally at first or upper second class level. A track record of successful research is preferred, and experience in robotics, mechanical engineering, high-throughput fluid handling, microfluidic manipulation, or molecular biology is highly desirable. The project is ideal for those interested in biomedical technology development and interdisciplinary research, especially translating engineering solutions to medical environments. To apply, candidates should send informal enquiries to Prof Maïwenn Kersaudy Kerhoas and submit a formal application via the Heriot-Watt University online portal, ensuring all required documents are prepared. The start date is 1st March 2026, and applicants are encouraged to check eligibility and apply early due to the competitive nature of the studentship. Key academic keywords include ctDNA, circulating tumour DNA, bioengineering, molecular biology, biomarkers, oncology, microfluidics, biomedical engineering, high-throughput fluid handling, robotics, and mechanical engineering. The opportunity offers collaboration with leading researchers and exposure to both academic and industrial contexts.