Standardisation and Metrology in Synthetic Biology

Synthetic biologists aim to engineer biology, and engineering demands reliable standardisation and predictable measurement. This can be difficult in to achieve in biology, however, because of the context-dependent and emergent character of living systems. These challenges demand the development of new approaches to standardisation and novel metrology tools. Additionally, social scientific work has shown that setting and implementing standards is often a highly political process, infused with values and expectations.
The student will explore ongoing standardisation and measurement activities in synthetic biology, with a focus on Edinburgh’s SynthSys centre. The aim is to conduct a cross-institutional and interdisciplinary analysis of core questions relating to the nature and limits of standardising and measuring biological systems. The student will have access to contacts in the National Physical Laboratory and the British Standards Institute.

Please apply by clicking the "Apply Online" button below.
Select the Research Area: "Materials & Processes" and clearly state on your application form which project you are applying for and the relevant supervisor.