The
Project:
Applications
are invited for three fully funded PhD positions to work on an exciting
inter-disciplinary project. The project aims to investigate the hearing organs
of various insects, and use this biological knowledge to inspire the
development of novel acoustic sensors with biomimetic properties.
The focus
of this project is the development of new micro-scale acoustic sensors, which
is a growing area of research that seeks to produce innovative designs for use
in a huge variety of applications including mobile phones, and portable and
wearable computing. This engineering development and innovation will take
inspiration from the micro-sized hearing organs found in many insects. A large
number of insect ears are known to have interesting properties currently not
exploited in industrial or commercial sensor products. Such properties will
then expand and enhance the function of artificial acoustic sensors.
The project
will involve working in an inter-disciplinary team, combining experimental and
theoretical investigations of different insect ears with the development of new
artificial acoustic sensors. The three students will each focus on a specific
aspect of the project, relating to their own degree experience (i.e. from
biology/engineering/physics/mathematics). However, this project will allow the
PhD students to gain training and experience in the tools and techniques used
in the other disciplines, extending their skill set and experience base.
The tools
and techniques to be utilised within the project include the very latest
equipment to undertake microscopy, vibrational measurements, and design and
create new sensors. The project team also includes two postdoctoral research
staff with high levels of experience in this area, who will provide help to the
PhD students. Finally, there will be lots of opportunities for all students to
travel internationally, both to conferences and to visit other laboratories.
Entry
Requirements:
A 2.1 and
above degree in Biology, Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or a related
discipline.
Funding:
These are
all 3.5 year fully funded studentships, and applications are welcomed from UK
and EU applicants. An annual tax-free stipend of £14,200 is available to the
successful candidates.
Contact:
Dr James
Windmill - james.windmill@strath.ac.uk
Dr James Windmill
Senior Lecturer
Centre for Ultrasonic
Engineering
Department of Electronic
and Electrical Engineering
University of Strathclyde
Royal College Building
204 George Street
Glasgow
G1 1XW
Tel. +44 (0)141 548 2694
Fax. +44 (0)141 548 2950
Email. james.windmill@strath.ac.uk