PhD Studentship - Mechanosensitive Nanochannels

Organization: The University of Manchester

Department: Physics and Astronomy

Location: Manchester, United Kingdom

Programme: PhD (3.5 Years)

Project Overview

This fully funded PhD project aims to develop artificial mechanosensitive nanochannels inspired by biological receptors using advanced two-dimensional (2D) materials such as graphene. The research seeks to engineer nanochannels capable of responding to touch, force, pressure, and other mechanical stimuli by controlling ion transport, enabling biomimetic sensing technologies.

The project combines nanotechnology, materials science, biomimetics, nanofluidics, and ion transport to create next-generation artificial mechanosensitive systems.

Research Objectives

• Design artificial nanochannels with tunable sensitivity to mechanical deformation.
• Develop selective ion transport mechanisms through engineered nanochannels.
• Control nanochannel geometry and surface chemistry for selective ion permeability.
• Integrate signal-processing mechanisms that convert ion transport into electrical signals.
• Develop biomimetic nanosystems capable of distinguishing touch, force, pressure, and mechanical stress.

Required Qualifications

• Upper Second-Class (2:1) Honours degree (or international equivalent) in Physics, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Alternatively, a 2:1 Honours degree with a Merit Master's degree in a relevant subject.
• Strong interest in nanotechnology, nanofluidics, advanced materials, or biomimetic systems.

Funding

• Fully funded for eligible UK Home students.
• Annual tax-free UKRI stipend: £21,805 (2026/27 rate).
• Full tuition fees covered for Home students.
• Stipend expected to increase annually.
• Self-funded Home and Overseas applicants are also welcome to apply.

Project Details

• Duration: 3.5 years.
• Expected start date: October 2026.
• Applications accepted year-round.

Supervisor

Principal Supervisor: Professor Radha Boya