APPLY NOW! university of Exeter Scholarship for Students 2024
About the Scholarship
The University of Exeter’s Department of Engineering invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship starting on 23 September 2024. The studentship covers Home or International tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend of at least £19,237 for 3.5 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study. The student will be based in the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy at the Streatham Campus in Exeter.
International Applicants: Please note, international applicants will need to cover the costs of a student visa, healthcare surcharge, and other relocation expenses.
Project Description:
This PhD project involves the development of wireless implantable micro-coil technology for precise and graded control of neuronal excitability through magnetic stimulation. This interdisciplinary research lies at the intersection of electronic engineering, neuroscience, and materials science and aims to advance neuromodulation technologies for novel therapeutic strategies targeting neurological disorders.
Background:Â Neuromodulation is an emerging field in both clinical and research settings, offering promising approaches to treat neurological and psychiatric conditions. While traditional methods like deep brain stimulation (DBS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) have shown effectiveness, they often lack the precision needed for more complex therapeutic interventions.
Recent advancements in magnetothermal approaches have demonstrated potential but come with risks due to heating. This project proposes an innovative approach using wireless implantable micro-coils, which generate localised magnetic fields within targeted brain regions, offering a non-thermal and highly controlled alternative. The precise tuning of these magnetic fields could enable customisable therapeutic interventions, opening new avenues in neuromodulation.
Project Aims: The PhD project aims to:
• Design and model micro-coils.
• Develop a wireless system and fabricate micro-coils.
• Characterise the effects of magnetic fields.
• Conduct experimental testing and validation.
Entry requirements
Candidate Profile:Â We seek a motivated candidate with a strong background in biomedical engineering, electromagnetic theories, mathematical modelling, electronic engineering, neuroscience, and materials science or related disciplines. Experience in microfabrication, wireless power transfer, electrophysiology, or biomedical device development is advantageous. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team and gain expertise in advanced neuromodulation techniques, materials science, and neural engineering.
English Language Requirements: Non-native English speakers must meet the university’s English proficiency requirements, as outlined at Exeter’s English guidance page.
How to apply
Submit the following documents during the application process:
• CV
• Letter of application (detailing academic interests, prior research experience, and reasons for pursuing this project)
• Transcripts of academic records
• Names of two academic referees, if shortlisted you will be expected to send the references to PGR admissions.
• Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Application Deadline: 30th September 2024.
