Novel multimode optical sensors for detection of trace compounds in the environment studentship

The ability to detect with high specificity and at high sensitivity (parts per billion level) toxic compounds in the environment is an exciting research topic which addresses a number of high impact challenges. One example is the detection of toxic chemicals accumulating in bathing waters as a result of developing algal blooms. Detection of such compounds can give early warning to allow preventative measures to be implemented.

Commercially available detection systems are expensive (~£30k) and bulky. UWE Bristol is developing novel miniaturised inexpensive sensor technologies to address these detection challenges. Currently, these operate as single sensors within a specific instrument. The ability to network these and other sensors would allow the sensors to be deployed, eg in water catchment areas, for applications requiring remote environmental monitoring.

Thus the sensors are required to be sensitive, operate remotely, be low powered and be part of a larger network. The project will focus on:

(i) the use of signal processing to improve the specificity of the sensors, eg via the frequency dependence of the sensor response

(ii) methods to reduce the power required for sensor operation and

(iii) novel methods of instrument integration that could combine a range of sensor systems for measuring toxic compounds and environmental pollutants in air samples.

For an informal discussion about the studentship, please email Professor Janice Kiely: [Email Address Removed]