Fully Funded PhD in Microfluidic Platforms for Airborne Pathogen Analysis – Public Health, Environmental Engineering, and Bioaerosol Science University of Leeds in United Kingdom

The University of Leeds is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focused on the development of microfluidic platforms for the sampling and analysis of airborne pathogens, with applications in public health and environmental engineering. This interdisciplinary project is ideal for candidates interested in microfluidics, bioaerosols, public health, and environmental monitoring. The research will involve developing novel miniaturised platforms for rapid detection and analysis of bioaerosols, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and pollen, particularly in clinical environments such as hospitals and transport hubs.

The successful candidate will join a collaborative team including Dr Mark Tarn (lead supervisor), Dr Marco-Felipe King, and Dr Louise Fletcher, and will work closely with partners at the University of Hertfordshire's Biodetection Technologies Hub. The project will utilize state-of-the-art facilities such as the EPSRC-funded Chamber for Environmental Control of Airborne Microorganisms (CECAM), an 80 m³ chamber for room-scale bioaerosol studies. Research objectives include assessing ESP sampling performance for pathogens, developing rapid microfluidic bioanalysis platforms, integrating and validating these technologies, and applying them to indoor air flow and ventilation assessment.

This opportunity is open to UK applicants with a strong background in (bio)analytical science, chemistry, engineering, physics, biology, or related disciplines. Applicants should have at least a first class or upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent). Evidence of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0 overall, minimum 5.5 in each component) is required for non-native speakers. Applicants who have previously been awarded a PhD or are currently registered on a PhD are not eligible. The scholarship covers UK-home tuition fees and provides a tax-free maintenance grant of £20,780 (2025/26 rate) for 3.5 years, along with a research training support grant for equipment, consumables, travel, and research visits.

To apply, candidates should submit an online application via the University of Leeds portal, specifying 'PHP Civil Engineering FT' as the course and 'Microfluidic platforms for airborne pathogen analysis in a clinical setting' as the research degree, with Dr Mark Tarn as the proposed supervisor. Applicants must also specify the funding source as Joint School of Civil Engineering/Earth & Environment Studentship 2026/27 (UKRI E3). Required documents include full transcripts, a personal statement, and a CV. The application deadline is Friday 27 February 2026, and the studentship must be taken up by 1 October 2026. Early application is encouraged as the process may close early if a suitable candidate is found. For further information, applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Mark Tarn ([email protected]) for project details or PGR Admissions ([email protected]) for application queries.

This project offers the chance to gain interdisciplinary skills in microfabrication, aerosol science, bioanalysis, and instrument development, contributing to impactful technologies for real-world public health applications.