Ponnalagu R N

MMNE Lab at Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, Hyderabad Campus is advertising two joint PhD positions in collaboration with Iowa State University . Position 1: AI-Enabled LIG-Microfluidic Biosensing Platform for Early Detection of Livestock Diseases . This project sits at the intersection of microfluidics , biosensing , AI-enabled sensing , and biomedical engineering , with a strong translational focus on livestock health diagnostics. Position 2: Edible and Implantable Microbial Fuel Cells for Biomedical Sensing . This topic combines microbial fuel cells , biomedical sensing , MEMS , and nanoelectronics , with emphasis on food-based, biocompatible, and miniaturized devices for in vivo monitoring applications. The supervisors listed are Prof. Ponnalagu R N and Prof. Sanket Goel at BITS Pilani, together with Prof. Carmen L. Gomes and Prof. Ratnesh Kumar at Iowa State University. The role highlights process standardisation, optimisation, TRL enhancement, proof-of-concept development, prototyping, and validation in an innovation-driven research ecosystem. Eligibility: M.E./M.Tech./M.S. in Engineering with at least 80% aggregate or 8.0 CGPA at both UG and PG levels. Candidates must clear the minimum cut-off in TOEFL/IELTS before moving to Iowa State University. Prior experience in sensors, microfluidics, MEMS, or nanoelectronics is preferred. Funding: ₹4,44,000 per annum during the first two years in India and $28,000 per annum while in the USA. The poster also mentions full tuition waiver and health insurance coverage . Deadline: 20 May 2026. Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter through the application form linked in the post.