N Ireland: Postgraduate Studentships

DEL PhD Studentship – Semiconductors and Nanotechnology

Proposed Project Title: Micromachined sensors for environmental and biomedical applications

Principal Supervisor: Dr SJN Mitchell

Project Description:
The aim of this project is to design, fabricate and characterise micromachined sensors for quantification of trace levels of chemicals in biomedical or environmental samples. Silicon micromachining technology has the potential to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of such sensors. This has been demonstrated in the case of sensors employing micromachined cantilever or nanowire structures. Cantilevers surfaces can be chemically treated or sensitised so that only molecules of certain substances will bind to them causing a change in deflection and resonant frequency. The electrical properties of suitably modified nanowires will respond to changes in the local environment caused by binding of target molecules to their surfaces. Arrays of nanowires or cantilevers can be used to simultaneously sense the levels of several types of molecule in the sample being analysed. It is predicted that micromachining will enable improvements in a wide range of sensor applications.

Objectives:
The project will review current technology for high sensitivity and selectivity detection of chemicals in the environment. Micromachined sensors will be examined in detail and the potential benefits of miniaturisation investigated. Novel miniaturised structures and the technology for their fabrication will be designed. Devices will be fabricated and fully characterised in collaboration with potential users in the chemistry and biochemistry fields.

Academic Requirements:
A minimum of a 2.1 honours degree or equivalent in Electrical and Electronic Engineering or relevant degree is required.
Start Date: 1 October 2010 Duration: 3 years

GENERAL INFORMATION
Applicants should apply electronically through the Queen’s online application portal athttps://pg.apply.qub.ac.uk/home
Further information available at:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/eeecs/ProspectiveStudents/Scholarships/PostgraduateResearchScholarships

Contact details:
Supervisor Name: Dr SJN Mitchell
QUB Address
School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering &Computer Science
Ashby Building

Tel: 028 9097 5436
Email: n.mitchell@qub.ac.uk
Web: http://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/NISRC/