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Deadline: The deadline for applications is 23:59 (UK time) on Wednesday 30 April 2025.
West Midlands, All England
A new PhD scholarship for Black British Researchers in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
PhD Project: Micro-engineered Integrated Non-invasive Diagnostic Technology of Traumatic Brain Injuries (MINDTBI).
This PhD project will be based in the School of Chemical Engineering which is part of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
The deadline for applications is 23:59 (UK time) on Wednesday 30 April 2025.
About the project
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death worldwide. TBI is a major global health challenge, affecting 138 million people in 2022 and costing £912 billion in socioeconomic impact. With no regenerative capacity in brain tissue, early diagnosis is critical -life-saving decisions must be made within minutes to influence patient prognosis and treatment efficacy. However, early-stage detection remains a challenge, as many patients show no immediate symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis and poor outcomes. Currently, no technology offers rapid, sensitive, point-of-care TBI detection to support early intervention, whether at the pitch side in contact sports or the roadside after accidents. The long-term effects of mild TBI and cumulative concussions further compound the issue, particularly for athletes. There is an urgent need for breakthrough diagnostics to enable timely, accurate triaging and treatment.
This project will develop a pioneering, portable micronano-engineered device using lithography-designed Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy in an optofluidic lab-on-a-chip. The system will enable low-cost, non-invasive early TBI diagnosis by detecting biomarkers from biofluids with high sensitivity. By providing real-time, reliable assessment, it will transform patient triaging, ensuring rapid and effective medical intervention.
With TBI costing the NHS £21 million annually, this project offers a high return on investment and significant potential as a point-of-care triage tool. Strategically, it will revolutionize neurodisease diagnostics, improving patient outcomes and saving lives. Conducted in collaboration with local hospitals, clinicians, and NIHR HRC-DDR, the research will ensure clinical relevance, NHS affordability, and direct patient benefits. The device will empower paramedics to assess injury severity in real time, enabling swift treatment decisions and targeted hospital triage. Early neuroprotective interventions will be initiated regardless of detailed diagnosis, with in-hospital confirmation.
Commercial impact will arise through IP exploitation, with clinical consultations optimizing the technology to meet critical medical needs. The project will drive high-impact publications, patents and industrial collaborations.
This multidisciplinary research integrates engineering, medicine, and biosciences. Led by experts from the University of Birmingham and QEHB, the supervisory team brings specialized expertise in nanomaterials, microfabrication, biology, and trauma research. State-of-the-art laboratories and technical support will ensure the project's success, fostering strong collaborations and translating scientific innovation into real-world clinical impact.
Beyond TBI, this technology holds immense potential for detecting other neurological conditions and monitoring drug delivery, ultimately improving healthcare and quality of life for millions worldwide.
Who can apply?
These scholarships are designed to create opportunities and address the underrepresentation of talented Black or Black mixed heritage students in academia. Applicants who meet all of the following criteria are eligible to apply:
3.Not already enrolled on a PhD programme at the University of Birmingham
What does the scholarship provide?
Applicants will be expected to have a good Honours degree (First Class or Upper Second Class Honours degree) awarded by a recognised University in a relevant subject, or an alternative qualification, or experience of equal quality. In certain cases, a Masters degree or equivalent may be expected in a relevant subject.
After applicants have made contact with the lead PhD supervisor, you will then need to apply to the PhD project using our online application portal: you should select '125th Anniversary Scholarships (EPS)'. You will need to create an account for the online application portal and you will be prompted to sign-in upon your return to the portal.
You do not need to complete your application in one session; you can save your application at each stage and return to the portal at any stage before submission, particularly if you do not have all of the necessary documents when you begin your application.
As this is an 'advertised PhD', in which you will studying the above project that has already been provided by the academic supervisor(s), you do not need to submit a research proposal. Your personal statement will suffice for determining your suitability for the PhD project as well as your previous academic, professional and personal experiences.
The deadline for applications is 23:59 (UK time) on Wednesday 30 April 2025.
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