Innovative microsampling technologies for minimally invasive disease diagnosis

About the Project

Early diagnosis is critical to effective treatment, yet many diseases still rely on invasive and time-consuming sampling techniques such as blood draws and tissue biopsies. This PhD project focuses on the development of innovative microsampling technologies to access clinically meaningful biomarkers directly from the skin, enabling faster, more patient-centred diagnostic approaches.

The project sits within an established programme of research in minimally invasive diagnostics and skin bioanalysis. By bypassing conventional sampling routes, the approaches developed in this PhD have clear relevance to skin cancer, infectious diseases, and inflammatory or autoimmune conditions, with the potential to reduce diagnostic timelines from days or weeks to minutes.

Within the group, multiple advanced physical microsampling strategies are under active development. The PhD will focus primarily on one microsampling approach, selected collaboratively with the supervisory team based on the student’s academic background, interests and long-term career goals. The specific disease focus and biomarker targets will be agreed early in the PhD to ensure realistic scope and robust, publishable outcomes within the doctoral timeframe.

Depending on the selected project pathway, the PhD may involve:

• Development and optimisation of minimally invasive skin microsampling platforms
• Integration of microsampling technologies with analytical and biosensing methods
• Characterisation of biomarker signatures associated with disease risk or progression
• Evaluation of device performance, safety and user acceptability using laboratory and preclinical models

A key strength of this project is its close alignment with clinical and translational research. The supervisory team works in collaboration with clinicians and clinical researchers, providing opportunities for the student to gain insight into real clinical needs and constraints. Where appropriate, the PhD may include involvement in patient-focused activities, such as supporting protocol development, observing or assisting with microsampling procedures, and contributing to assessments of patient comfort and usability. These activities are intended to enhance clinical relevance while remaining proportionate to a laboratory-focused PhD.

The project also benefits from active collaborations with industry partners in the medical device and health technology sector. Subject to project direction and progress, opportunities may exist for industrial engagement or short-term placement, providing exposure to engineering, manufacturing and clinical translation within a commercial environment.

You will join a friendly, multidisciplinary research team working across pharmaceutical science, bioengineering and clinical translation, with access to state-of-the-art facilities across Newcastle University. Training will be tailored to the individual student but is expected to span elements of device development, materials science, bioanalysis, biosensing and experimental evaluation, alongside transferable skills in scientific writing, data analysis and translational research.