PhD Studentship: Wearable Machine Learning Enabled RF Sensors for Measuring Human Hydration

University of Southampton; Southampton; On-site; GBP 17,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southampton invites applications for a PhD project focused on developing a non-invasive device to monitor dehydration. Candidates with a strong background in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and an interest in RF engineering and machine learning are encouraged to apply. This project has significant implications for medical care and various applications in fields like sports science and aerospace physiology.

Benefits

Funding opportunities for UK and international students

Bursaries and Scholarships

Generous maternity policy

Onsite childcare facilities

Commitment to equality and diversity

Qualifications

• Background in Electrical and Electronic Engineering or closely related fields.
• Strong interest in RF engineering and/or machine learning.

Responsibilities

• Research and development of a sensor system for continuous monitoring of dehydration.
• Design optimization for wearability and robust data acquisition.

Skills

RF engineering

Machine learning

Education

Undergraduate degree equivalent to UK 2:1

Good Masters level degree

Job description

PhD Supervisor: Suan Hui Pu

Supervisory Team: Suan Hui Pu

Project description:

Dehydration in humans can lead to severe health consequences if left untreated. There is an unmet need for an accurate, non-invasive device to monitor dehydration in a clinical and non-clinical setting. The aim of this project is to pursue research and development in a sensor system for continuous monitoring of dehydration using a low-power radio-frequency (RF) sensor. The research objectives include design optimization to improve wearability, robust data acquisition using machine learning and establishing correlation between the RF signals and hydration levels in human tissue. The outcomes of this research will reduce the impact of dehydration in medical care, with potential applications in sports science, aerospace physiology etc. This PhD project is suitable for applicants with a background in Electrical and Electronic Engineering or closely related fields. Candidates with a strong interest in RF engineering and/or machine learning are encouraged to apply.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Prof Suan Hui Pu, Smart Manufacturing and Systems Research Group, Email: [e-mail].

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK 2:1 honours degree from a reputable university. Candidates without a first class honours at the Bachelors level is expected to have a good Masters level degree.

Closing date: 31 August 2025.

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply onlineby clicking the 'Apply' button, above. Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Science, next page select “PhD Engineering (UoSM) (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Suan Hui Pu.

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: [e-mail]

The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarship