PhD Research Studentships
PhD Studentship: Intelligent instrumentation, sensing and optoelectronic devices
| Supervisor: | Lei SU |
| Apply by: | 17 July 2026 |
| Start in: | September (Semester 1) |
Description
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has been transforming human ability to execute complex inference tasks using computers. In the field of instrumentation, sensors and optoelectronics, deep learning has uncovered exciting applications in areas such as sensing, diagnosis, imaging, communication, and system designs.
This project aims to develop AI and machine-learning based novel instrument, sensor and optoelectronic systems. Given the wide concept of AI based instrumentation and sensing, as well as the group’s available expertise on several research projects in this area, this PhD project can be tailored according to the successful candidate’s interest and experience. The applicant is expected to have experience (but not limited to) in one or several of the following areas: electronic engineering, optical engineering, ultrasound engineering, physics, optoelectronics, machine learning, wearable devices, or material engineering.
Benefits include training in state-of-the-art techniques from nanofabrication to advanced sensing systems with the supervisors’ groups. Candidates will further benefit from a close collaboration with industry partners and clinical collaborators, leading to future career opportunities both in the academic and industry sector.
Group: The research in the host group is centred on sensors and instrumentation, optical and electronic devices, and optoelectronic materials for imaging, detection, monitoring and communication, interfacing with Artificial Intelligence, Materials, Chemistry and Nanotechnology, in applications such as healthcare, energy and security. Please see below some relevant publications from the host group.
Our research groups prioritise a healthy research culture, collaboration, and flexible work hours as needed. We will provide a personalised mentorship, including working towards different career choices following the PhD. Previous group members continued to (independent) careers in academia and industry. We are also happy to discuss potential applications informally (see contact details below).
For informal enquiries about this position, please contact Professor Lei Su (l.su@qmul.ac.uk)
Funding
Funded by: SEMSThe annual QMUL stipend rate is £22,618 for Home applicants only.
Eligibility
- The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
- If English is not your first language, you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of minimum score of 6.0 in each of Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking).
- Note for EPSRC studentships; these studentships are open to those with Home fee status; according to the EPSRC terms and conditions.
- Candidates are expected to start in September (Semester 1).
Contact
For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Lei SU.
Apply
Start an application for this studentship and for entry onto the PhD FT Medical Engineering full-time programme (Semester 1 / September start):
Please be sure to quote the reference "SEMS-PHD-733" to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.
| Related website: | https://www.sems.qmul.ac.uk/staff/l.su | |
| SEMS Research Centre: | ||
| Keywords: | Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science - Other, Machine Learning, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Robotics, Ceramics, Materials Science - Other, Optical Physics |