(UoM - IIT KGP) Mechanosensitive Nanochannels The University of Manchester in United Kingdom

Nano- and Angstrom-scale capillaries have been studied intensively because of their importance in many natural phenomena and use in numerous applications. Embarking on a groundbreaking PhD journey, this research endeavours to revolutionize the landscape of biomimetics by developing artificial nanochannels inspired by biological mechanosensitive receptors. With a focus on mimicking the exquisite touch, force, pressure, and nuanced responses to various physical stresses found in human skin, the proposed nanochannels will be meticulously crafted from cutting-edge 2D materials. Leveraging the unique properties of these materials, such as graphene or other two-dimensional structures, our aim is to engineer nanochannels that not only respond to mechanical deformation but also enable controlled ion flows, mirroring the sensory sophistication of natural receptors. The primary aim of this research is to design and develop artificial nanochannels capable of mimicking the diverse sensory functions of biological mechanosensitive receptors. Specifically, the focus is on creating nanochannels that enable ion flows to distinguish between touch, force, pressure, and various forms of physical stress. This involves:

1. Designing Nanochannels with Variable Sensitivity: Develop nanochannels with the ability to modulate ion flow in response to different magnitudes of mechanical stress, thereby mimicking the varied sensitivity of biological mechanosensitive receptors.

2. Implementing Selective Ion Permeability: Engineer the nanochannels to exhibit selective ion permeability, allowing for the distinction between different types of mechanical stimuli. This can be achieved by controlling the size, shape, and chemical properties of the nanochannels.

3. Integrating Signal Processing Mechanisms: Incorporate signal processing mechanisms within the artificial receptors to interpret the ion flow patterns and generate distinct electrical signals corresponding to touch, force, pressure, and various forms of physical stress.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

You will need to submit an online application through the IIT Kharagpur's website here: https://international.iitkgp.ac.in/admission/jdp-uoman/

When you apply, you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

1. Academic Transcripts

2. Curriculum Vitae

3. Statement of Research Interest-Max 750 words (you may contact the listed supervisors for your project to obtain more information)

4. 2 recommendation letters

5. Any photo identity proof (Passport / Aadhar Card / Voter ID / Student ID Card)

6. Photo and Signature

If you require an English qualification to study in the UK, you can apply now and send this in at a later date.

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact the admissions team(s) by email:

- University of Manchester: [email protected]

- IIT Kharagpur: [email protected]

Eligibility

1. Candidates may only apply for projects approved by the Joint Academic Board.

2. For Indian residents, the programme is open to graduates B.Tech. or M.Sc./M.Tech. graduate from any Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) with a minimum CGPA of 7.5 on a scale of 10.

3. For residents of other countries, it is open to graduates of Institutes/Universities within QS WUR of 500 (published in 2024) [link: https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings/2024 ].

4. Candidates must be able to undertake PhD studies at IIT Kharagpur from July 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter with no requirement for a (further) visa to study in India.

5. Willingness to travel to the UK to undertake 2 years of study based at The University of Manchester if such travel is permitted by UK and India governments.

6. Holds or expects to obtain a 2:1 class honours undergraduate degree or higher (or international equivalent – contact the Admissions Team for details).

7. Ideally Preferably holds a master’s-level qualification at merit or distinction (or international equivalent – contact the Admissions Team for details).

8. Demonstrable excellent communication skills, including in English language, a proficiency in which should be demonstrably indicated by meeting the requirements as indicated our English language requirements page [link: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/admissions/language-requirements/ ], and in particular securing an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component OR securing a TOEFL iBT score of 90 with no less than 20 in each component equivalent or equivalent. The TOEFL/IELTS exam may be taken after the final selection and award of scholarship, and prior to joining IIT Kharagpur.

9. For some projects an ATAS certificate may also be required by them.

10. Demonstrate to fulfil The University of Manchester Faculty of Science and Engineering Postgraduate Researcher person specification:

* Educational background matches research project.

* Potential to form effective working relationships with a diverse range of people, including working inclusively and as part of a team.

* Potential to take the initiative, lead on projects, and be proactive in prioritising a dynamic, agile and diverse workload.

* Potential to develop understanding of complex problems, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a given scenario, and apply in-depth knowledge to address them.

* Potential to develop expertise in new areas of the subject.

* Evidence of an understanding of the proposed area of research, including knowledge of current challenges and opportunities.

* An interest in continuous personal and professional development.

* Potential to communicate ideas and conclusions, verbally and in writing, clearly and effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

* Preliminary knowledge of research techniques/track record of engaging with research.

Equality, Diversity and inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).

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