Molecular fingerprinting in the context of forensic analytical science, describes those techniques/methods enabling the provision of chemical information from a fingermark to be used to gather intelligence around the individual that has left that impression. This information can also be mapped onto the ridge detail to provide suspect profiling and biometric intelligence [1,2]. Molecular fingerprinting by Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MALDI MSI) has been pioneered at Sheffield Hallam University and has been already used in some police casework.
However, it must be advanced to expand feasibility and capabilities in the view of a systematic implementation in operational settings; this studentship will enable MALDI MS detection, individualisation and imaging of single and mixed biofluids as well as of antipsychotics and date rape drugs in fingerprints, for enhanced intelligence-gathering of major crimes investigation.
Waters Corp. has recently launched a new generation of IMS mass spectrometers, a unique innovation under the SELECT SERIES, called Cyclic IMS; this is now operational at the Centre for Mass Spectrometry Imaging (CMSI) in BMRC. This mass spectrometer has a unique circular path, which further enhances the specific isolation/selection of analytes by changing the ion path length [3]. This instrument's superior IMS capabilities have already been demonstrated in many areas. However, Waters has not designed the Cyclic IMS to work with a MALDI MS source. The overarching aim of this project is the testing and further development of a prototype MALDI source, designed, engineered and supplied by Waters. It will be optimised and enhanced for research in the forensic and molecular fingerprinting domain as well as being benchmarked against the MRT Select Series MALDI Mass Spectrometer (Waters Corp). A comparative evaluation with Desorption Electrospray Ionisation Mass Spectrometry Imaging, using the same instrumentation will be also made with the view of finding complementarities in the forensic opportunities provided and design a multi-modal workflow.
This 36 month fully funded PhD project will be based in the world leading Centre for Mass Spectrometry Imaging (CMSI) at the Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, sitting within the Sheffield Multimodal Centre for Mass Spectrometry Imaging at Sheffield Hallam University. It will involve a close collaboration with the global instrument manufacturer Waters Corp. Manchester and Dr Glenn Langenburg Elite Forensics, US, as well as a number of other satellite partners which are subtopic specific (including the University of Surrey, London South Bank University and West Yorkshire Police).
The successful applicant student will join a vibrant research community (140+ PhD students), being supported by a dedicated supervisory, postgraduate and Institute Admin Teams.
They will gain a deep understanding of both the chemistry and the operational aspects of the mass spectrometry techniques employed and have the opportunity to disseminate at national and international conferences. Professional development will be enhanced through the collaboration with industrial and academic partners thus offering the student avenues for job employment once the title has been attained.
Eligibility
Information on entry requirements can be found here
• Applicants should have a degree in chemistry, or any other relevant area, at a minimum of 2.1
How to apply
Please apply online here
For any queries, please contact the lead academic, Prof. Simona Francese, [Email Address Removed].
Start date for studentship: October 2023
Interviews are scheduled for: TBC
For further information on entry requirements and how to apply, please visit https://www.shu.ac.uk/courses/biosciences-and-chemistry/phd-biomolecular-sciences-research-centre/full-time/2023
Your application should be submitted by the closing date of 31st May 2023. Click here to apply.
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