Fully-funded PhD: Towards Scalable eDNA Monitoring: Engineering Microfluidic Systems for Biodiversity Assessment

In conservation management, it is vital to understand and determine the species present within an environment. However, the detection of aquatic species can be challenging when species are difficult to observe. Conventional monitoring can be time-consuming and require a high level of training, while eDNA (environmental DNA) analysis can be expensive, time-consuming, and require highly trained scientists. This interdisciplinary PhD will make eDNA analyses easier and quicker to implement by developing a sustainable, paper-based Lab-on-a-Chip (LOC) device that is simple to use and can provide rapid, low-cost detection of eDNA for aquatic biodiversity monitoring.

The successful candidate will design and fabricate a cellulose-based LOC capable of water processing, eDNA capture, and quantitative species detection for in-field use. This innovative approach will miniaturise complex molecular workflows, enabling field-based, real-time species monitoring without the requirement for laboratory infrastructure. Validation of the technology will involve liaison with leading conservation organisations, including the Mersey Gateway Environmental Trust.

This interdisciplinary project spans Molecular Biology, Conservation, Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, and Electrochemistry. You will be supported by, and receive multidisciplinary training from, an interdisciplinary team consisting of an aquatic biologist and experts in LOC technology, electrochemistry, and biomedical manufacturing. 

Project aims and objectives

The aim of project: To develop a novel, miniaturised LOC for high throughout, low-cost, eDNA detection for species detection. In order to achieve this aim several objectives must be met, those being: 

1. Development of water processing ‘module’, through production of ‘smart-paper’ for lysis and capture of aquatic eDNA, and manufacture of sustainable cartridges for pressure-driven flow to allow processing of large volumes.
2. Design of hydrogel-based LAMP assayswhich will be specific for species of interest
3. Development of battery-powered integrated heating elementsuitable for LAMP assays 

4. Validation studies compared to conventional survey methods and mapping of key target species in the environment in collaboration with our conservation partners.