Mechanosensitive Nanochannels

About the Project

Nano- and Angstrom-scale capillaries have been studied intensively because of their importance in many natural phenomena and use in numerous applications. Embarking on a groundbreaking PhD journey, this research endeavours to revolutionize the landscape of biomimetics by developing artificial nanochannels inspired by biological mechanosensitive receptors. With a focus on mimicking the exquisite touch, force, pressure, and nuanced responses to various physical stresses found in human skin, the proposed nanochannels will be meticulously crafted from cutting-edge 2D materials. Leveraging the unique properties of these materials, such as graphene or other two-dimensional structures, our aim is to engineer nanochannels that not only respond to mechanical deformation but also enable controlled ion flows, mirroring the sensory sophistication of natural receptors. The primary aim of this research is to design and develop artificial nanochannels capable of mimicking the diverse sensory functions of biological mechanosensitive receptors. Specifically, the focus is on creating nanochannels that enable ion flows to distinguish between touch, force, pressure, and various forms of physical stress. This involves:

1. Designing Nanochannels with Variable Sensitivity: Develop nanochannels with the ability to modulate ion flow in response to different magnitudes of mechanical stress, thereby mimicking the varied sensitivity of biological mechanosensitive receptors.
2. Implementing Selective Ion Permeability: Engineer the nanochannels to exhibit selective ion permeability, allowing for the distinction between different types of mechanical stimuli. This can be achieved by controlling the size, shape, and chemical properties of the nanochannels.
3. Integrating Signal Processing Mechanisms: Incorporate signal processing mechanisms within the artificial receptors to interpret the ion flow patterns and generate distinct electrical signals corresponding to touch, force, pressure, and various forms of physical stress.

Before you apply

We recommend that you contact the main supervisor for this project; Prof Boya - radha.boya@manchester.ac.uk. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

You will need to submit an online application through our website here: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When you apply, you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• You will be asked to supply contact details for two referees on the application form (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/ work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it.
• English Language certificate (if applicable). If you require an English qualification to study in the UK, you can apply now and send this in at a later date.

If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk

Eligibility

The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).

Funding Notes

This 3.5 year PhD is for self-funded students. Exceptional candidates will be considered for Faculty funding (this will include an annual tax free stipend of £20,780 and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year).

At The University of Manchester, we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

We recommend that you apply early as the advert will be removed once the position has been filled.