Electrochemical Sensor-Based Point-of-Care Diagnostic Platform for Early Detection of Dementia

This PhD project aims to develop a portable, affordable, and ultra-sensitive electrochemical biosensor for detecting key dementia biomarkers in minimally invasive samples (e.g., a finger-prick drop of blood or saliva). Designed for point-of-care (POC) use, the device will deliver rapid, helping to overcome the limitations of costly, invasive, and time-consuming conventional diagnostics. The proposed system will combine nanomaterial-enhanced sensing electrodes for improved signal sensitivity, high-affinity biorecognition elements (antibodies or aptamers) for selective biomarker detection, and a microcontroller-based readout unit for data processing. Through laboratory optimisation and pilot clinical validation, the project aims to match or exceed the accuracy of current laboratory gold standards. Upon successful completion, this scalable platform could enable early dementia screening worldwide, particularly in low-resource settings where diagnostic infrastructure is limited. As a PhD researcher, you will work at the dynamic interface of nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, and neuroscience, developing cutting-edge biosensors that merge advanced materials science with clinical needs. You will gain hands-on experience in sensor fabrication, surface chemistry, signal processing, and microelectronics, as well as direct exposure to clinical research and interdisciplinary collaboration with neurologists, materials scientists, and device engineers. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to life-changing medical technology that could transform how and how early we detect dementia, potentially improving the lives of millions of patients and families worldwide.