Combining DNA with antibodies for affordable measurement of clinically critical biomarker panels

Supervisory Team: Dr Al Edwards, Dr Andres Vallejo Pulido, Dr Hannah Schiff

Clinical diagnostic testing continues to grow, but we still lack accessible test technology, especially for measuring panels of important biomarkers found in blood. 

This project will develop a new approach that makes quantitation of blood biomarkers accessible and affordable. We will exploit recent developments in DNA sequencing plus antibody-DNA conjugation chemistry, to allow simultaneous measurement of panels of biomarkers. This allows us to translate current research tools – oligo-linked immunoassays – that are excellent for discovering new biomarkers – into clinically useful tests. Cutting edge bioassay miniaturisation will be exploited; but low-cost lateral flow rapid test components will also be considered, to ensure we deliver a test format that is practical, manufacturable and affordable for large-scale diagnostic testing.

Global use has driven down lateral flow immunoassay cost, being fast to develop and mass-manufacture. The covid-19 pandemic brought these rapid tests into our homes. But several technical drawbacks – e.g. limited quantitation and analytical sensitivity – make them unsuitable for many vital clinical applications. CRP testing is a multi $B global market, illustrating how frequent routine testing for inflammation has become. But CRP is elevated for many reasons. Our lack of accessible technology for measuring multiple markers, prevents us measuring far more specific inflammatory markers alongside CRP. Our team recently used oligo-linked antibody technology –combining DNA sequencing with oligo-linked antibodies – to discover new tuberculosis infection biomarkers.

This project can deliver real-world benefits from these recent discoveries, by combinating of DNA sequencing with antibody assays alongside advanced biomedical engineering, to deliver clinically useful technology.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent).

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk).

You need to:  

• choose programme type (research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

• please select if you will be full time or part time

• choose the relevant PhD in Engineering & Environment

• add name of the supervisor in Section 2  

Applications should include:  

• personal statement 

• CV (resumé) 

• 2 reference letters 

• degree transcripts to date