Research Theme

Novel Computing and Beyond CMOS Hardware

Sensor Signal Procesing

UK Nationals Only

Aim

Our goal is to develop DNA-nanostructure-based reconfigurable electronics that can be used for construction of adaptive information processing platforms.

Objectives

  1. Use a chain of a DNA nanostructures to form a conductive path between two electrodes. The technical challenge here is rendering the DNA-based network conductive while retaining the addressability of individual components. Extend the previous result to more complex geometries with multiple electrodes and diverse paths. Technical challenge: exercising precise control over the assembly of the components.
  2. Demonstrate the capability to dynamically disassemble and reassemble connections, in response to an electrical/electrochemical/biomolecular trigger. Technical challenge: design of the trigger mechanism.
  3. Harness the capabilities of our platform to implement learning. Technical challenge: design of the learning mechanism.

Description

Our ultimate goal is to build an adaptive bioelectrochemical network that can learn, with inputs provided either by electrical stimulation or biochemical signals. You will undertake a literature review covering the topics of DNA nanotechnology, biomolecular computing, nanofabrication, and techniques for electrochemically interfacing with DNA-based systems. The research will begin with the use of DNA nanostructures to build a self-assembling conductive pathway between two electrodes, before moving on to more complex architectures involving more nodes and edges. The next priority will be demonstration of disassembly and reassembly of this system in response to biomolecular and/or electrical triggers. This will lay the foundation for an intelligent, adaptive system that is capable of learning.

The research is interdisciplinary and draws on the expertise of the academic supervisors in bioengineering, particularly Dr Katherine Dunn, who has undertaken numerous projects at the interface between electronics and biology. 

Industry Partner

This project is supported by Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL)

Closing date: 
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Principal Supervisor

Assistant Supervisor

Eligibility

A UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent in a relevant subject (biological sciences, physical sciences or engineering). Must have good practical/experimental skills and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research.

Funding