Coventry University (CU) is inviting applications from suitably-qualified graduates for a fully-funded PhD studentship. The successful candidates will join the project ‘Towards reliable detection of uterine contraction: Development of a nanostructured biocompatible electrohysterography electrode array system’ led by Prof Dingchang Zheng (physiological measurement and healthcare technology) and Dr Haipeng Liu (Wearable sensor development and biosignal processing) at Coventry University.
Abnormal uterine contractions (UCs) are related to severe obstetric complications (e.g., premature birth, dystocia) which lead to high maternal morbidity especially in low-source communities. Understanding the origin and path of electrical activity associated with UCs is of great importance for the diagnosis of dysfunction in pregnancy and labour. A non-invasive method of detecting uterine electrical activity is provided by electrohysterography (EHG) signal which can be recorded using electrodes on the abdominal surface. However, many physiological and environmental factors (e.g. poor skin adhesion, body movement, etc.) can affect the quality of EHG signal. Additionally, there is a lack of multi-channel EHG system which can cover the abdominal area that can comprehensively reflect the uterine electrical activities.;
In this PhD project, we aim to develop a nanotechnology-based biocompatible electrode array system to achieve the reliable recording of high-quality multi-channel EHG signals. Different advanced nanomaterials will be used to develop a stretchable EHG electrode with high sensitively, elasticity and biocompatibility. A multi-channel EHG electrode array will be designed and optimized to ensure the best performance in different physiological conditions. The accuracy and sensitivity of the multi-channel EHG signals will be comprehensively evaluated.
We are looking for highly motivated candidates who have a strong interest in developing innovative healthcare technologies and has a broad understanding of wearable sensor design and electrophysiology. The PhD project requires working with material scientists, biomedical engineers, and clinicians at different stages along the development pathway – and will lead to high-quality publications. This multidisciplinary project will involve electrode development and test, computational simulation, physical experiment, and physiological measurement.
Entry criteria for applicants to PHD
- A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
PLUS
- the potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a 3.5 years
- Language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).
- All applications require full supporting documentation, CV, a covering letter, plus a 2000-word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.
For further details see: https://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-students/making-an-application/