"PhD Studentship: Development and Characterisation of Next-Generation Screen-Printed Electrochemical Biosensor Arrays for Multi-Biomarker Detection of Cardiovascular Health"

Manchester Metropolitan University

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for rapid, cost-effective, and accurate diagnostic tools. Current methods for detecting cardiac biomarkers such as troponins, BNP, and CRP are often slow, expensive, and reliant on centralised laboratory facilities. This project aims to revolutionise point-of-care diagnostics by developing next-generation screen-printed electrochemical biosensor arrays capable of detecting multiple biomarkers simultaneously.

The successful candidate will explore innovative electrode designs, advanced surface functionalisation strategies, and cutting-edge characterisation techniques (including Manchester Met’s unique in-situ electrochemical-AFM-nanoRaman (TERS) system) to optimise sensor performance. The research will progress from fundamental surface science to the fabrication of intelligent, multiplexed sensor arrays, enabling fast and reliable cardiovascular health monitoring.

This exciting 3-year PhD will be conducted in collaboration with Cambridge Medical Technologies, ensuring strong translational impact and real-world relevance. The candidate will join Manchester Metropolitan University’s world-class Electrochemistry Research Group.

Project aims and objectives

This PhD aims to develop next-generation screen-printed electrochemical biosensor arrays for rapid, multiplexed detection of cardiovascular biomarkers at the point of care. The project will:

• Investigate fundamental electrode–biomarker interactions using advanced electrochemical and surface characterisation techniques, including Manchester Met’s unique EC-AFM-TERS system.
• Optimise surface chemistry to improve biomarker attachment, stability, and signal reliability.
• Design and fabricate intelligent screen-printed electrodes and arrays for multi-analyte detection.
• Validate sensor performance for sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility across biological matrices.

The successful candidate will work at the interface of electrochemistry, materials science, and healthcare innovation, contributing to impactful research with strong translational potential through collaboration with Cambridge Medical Technologies.

Funding

Home students can apply only. Home tuition fees will be covered for the duration of the three-year award, which is £5,238 for the year 2026/27.

The student will receive a standard stipend payment for the duration of the award. These payments are set at a level determined by the UKRI, currently £21,805 for the academic year 2026/27.

Specific requirements of the candidate

We are seeking a candidate, ideally with a Master’s degree (and a minimum 2.1 BSc(Hons) degree) in Chemistry, Materials Science, Biomedical Science, or a related discipline.

• Strong knowledge of electrochemistry, analytical techniques, or biosensor development
• Experience with laboratory-based research, including electrode fabrication, spectroscopy, or electrochemical methods
• Must be willing to travel to industry partner site
• Demonstrate a genuine interest in innovation and interdisciplinary research

How to apply

Dr Dale Brownson (D.Brownson@mmu.ac.uk) will lead the project as your Principal Supervisor. You are encouraged to apply for this opportunity directly by following the steps outlined below, without an informal discussion. If you have any queries in relation to this project, please get in touch with the proposed Principal Supervisor.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full time PhD in Physical Sciences

Please complete the Doctoral Project Applicant Form, and include your CV and a covering letter to demonstrate how your skills and experience map to the aims and objectives of the project, the area of research, and why you see this area as being of importance and interest.

Please upload these documents in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal.

Applications closing date: 2 April 2026

Expected start date: October 2026