PhD- Optical Biomarker Sensing (OBS)

Cork, Munster, Ireland
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PhD- Optical Biomarker Sensing (OBS)
Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

The FAST Biophotonics group at Tyndall National Institute is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on eliminating racial and anatomical bias in Optical Biomarker Sensing (OBS). This research is part of the ambitious NOBIAS project, which aims to create a next-generation, fast Time-Domain Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy (TDDOS) platform to overcome the inherent limitations of current continuous wave (CW) technology used in devices like pulse oximeters.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, devices based on CW technology were found to be less accurate for individuals with darker skin tones, potentially contributing to disparities in health outcomes. This PhD project will contribute to the development of bias-free, accurate OBS systems, with real-time sensing capability and wearable potential.

Research Objectives

  • Develop and validate a multilayer TDDOS model using Monte Carlo simulations to study the impact of skin tone and anatomy on signal accuracy.
  • Design and optimize device concepts and optical probes to compensate for and eliminate color bias.
  • Contribute to a hybrid CW-TDDOS sensing strategy (Phase 1) and a full fast TDDOS system (Phase 2) capable of faster measurements.
  • Develop a novel real-time compensation algorithm.
  • Participate in phantom-based validation and early human testing (adults and infants) for haemoglobin (Hb/HbO) and oxygen saturation (SpO2/StO2) biomarkers.
  • Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
  • Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
  • Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.
  • Carry out any additional duties as may be reasonably required within the general scope and level of the post.

Essential Criteria

  • Strong academic background in optics, photonics, or biomedical engineering.
  • Experience in working with time of flight or LIDAR technology.
  • Proficiency in programming  language (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C++).

Desirable Criteria

  • Familiarity with Monte Carlo methods for photon migration in tissue.
  • Knowledge of time-domain or frequency-domain spectroscopy.
  • Interest in translational research, including device design, testing, and clinical relevance.
  • Enthusiasm for contributing to equity-driven technological innovation in healthcare.

What We Offer

  • Full PhD funding, including tuition and stipend.
  • A dynamic research environment in one of the world’s leading photonics centres (IPIC @ Tyndall).
  • Access to world-class facilities, training.
  • Opportunities for international collaboration with academic and clinical partners.
  • A chance to make a real societal impact by addressing health inequities through technology.

The annual stipend is €25,000 pa. In addition, yearly University academic fees will be paid by the Tyndall National Institute.

Informal inquiries can be made in confidence to Sanathana Konugolu.
The closing date for applications is 23 May, 2025.

Application Instructions
Please make sure to attach an up-to-date CV/Resume AND a brief cover letter outlining how you meet the criteria for this role.

Postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency as per UCC regulations (https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/postgraduate/). Certificates should be valid (usually less than 2 years old) and should be uploaded with their application.

Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.

Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
 

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