Versatile nanopore devices for sensing, sequencing, and beyond

Project Summary

Nanopore sensing has revolutionised nucleic acid sequencing, but its full potential as a versatile and highly parallel platform is only beginning to be realised. This project aims to create next-generation nanopore platforms that integrate innovative designs with modular components, enabling seamless switching between different sensing chemistries and application scenarios. Candidates will explore the design and fabrication of device architectures that support a wide range of analytical needs from sample collection and processing, parallel sensing, to readout interpretation. The ultimate goal is to transform clinical and personal diagnostics by creating powerful, user-friendly devices suitable for both point-of-care and at-home applications, extending nanopore sensing far beyond the laboratory.

Advisors

• Dr James Clarke (Senior Director of Product Science, EIT)
• Professor Yujia Qing (Senior Group Leader, EIT & Associate Professor of Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford)
• Professor Hagan Bayley (Principal Scientist, EIT & Professor of Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford)

Skills Recommended

• A 4-year undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. Engineering, Physics, Computer Science).
• Research experience with skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis, ideally in areas such as device fabrication, microfluidics, and materials.
• Strong self-motivation and enthusiasm for research in a dynamic and evolving field.
• Clear and effective communication skills, written and verbal, with an interest in working across disciplines.

University DPhil Courses 

• DPhil from the University of Oxford

Relevant Literature

• The MinION: small but mighty- https://nanoporetech.com/products/sequence/minion
• McGivern, L., Lim, Z.H., Bo, Z., Bayley, H. and Qing, Y. Targeted, high-resolution sensing of volatile organic compounds by covalent nanopore detection. Nature Communications, in press (2025)

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