Phd Research Project

School of Engineering and Built Environment

PhD Research Project

Project Title: Personal Sensors in Clothing for Evaluating Air Pollution and its impact on Skin Conditions

Project Reference Number: SEBE_SELF_MAGM_6

Background

Ambient air pollution can have a negative effect on skin health. Recent developments in sensor technology have made it possible to better measurepersonal exposure to environmental air pollution. Smart clothing integrates micro sensors into fabric for collecting and monitoring environmental and human data. However there are significant outstanding challenges around effectiveness, ease of wear (i.e. sensor size, location, layout of any cabling, battery life, ease of removal), impact on fashion style, operability and cost. Understanding the changing relationship between these two variables during the course of a day would of great interest to individuals for personal health and wellbeing, and also to the cosmetic industry for making personalised recommendations.The research question is: Whatpersonal sensors attached to clothing can evaluate pollution levels and evaluate its impact on skin condition ?

Example References

1. Chen, M., Ma, Y., Song, J. et al. (2016) Smart Clothing: Connecting Human with Clouds and Big Data for Sustainable Health Monitoring, Mobile Network Applications 21: 825.
2. De Nazelle, A.; Seto, E.; Donaire-Gonzalez, D.; Meo variables ndezeen these t, M.; Matamala, J.; Rodriguez, D. Nieuwenhuijsen, M.; Jerrett, M. Improving estimates of air pollution exposure through ubiquitous sensing technologies. Environ. Pollut. 2013, 176, 92–99
3. Snyder, E.G.; Watkins, T.H.; Solomon, P.A.; Thoma, E.D.; Williams, R.; Hagler, G.S.W.;Shelow, D.; Hindin, D.A.; Kilaru, V.J.; Preuss, P.W. The changing paradigm of air pollution monitoring. Environ. Sci. Technol. 2013, 47, 11369−11377
4. Drakaki, E., Dessinioti, C., Antonio, C., (2014) Air pollution and the skin, Frontiers of Environmental Science, Vol 2, May.
5. Mancebo, S. E; Wang, S. Q (2015) Recognizing the impact of ambient air pollution on skin health, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 12/2015, Volume 29, Issue 12

Aims

The aims of the project are to:

• Categorise what is known about air pollutants and the different effects on skin conditions
• Identify the characteristics of personal sensors and their integration into smart clothing
• Develop prototype of a personal sensor that can be integrated into smart clothing that can evaluate pollution levels and evaluate its impact on skin condition
• Evaluate the prototype and report on the findings.

Research Supervisor

Candidates are encouraged to contact the following researchers for further details:

• Professor Mike Mannion (); School of Engineering & Built Environment
• Dr Gordon Morison, School of Engineering & Built Environment
• Dr Noreen Siddiqui: Glasgow School for Business & Society)
• Professor Gianna Cassidy, School of Engineering & Built Environment

Mode(s) of Study

This project is available as a:

• PhD: 3 years full-time
• PhD: 4-6 years part-time (provided UK Visa eligibility criteria are satisfied)
• 1 + 3 route to PhD: Undertaking MRes [1 year full-time] + PhD as above

APPLICATION DETAILS

Eligibility

Applicants will normally hold a UK honours degree 1st/2:1 (or equivalent); or a Masters degree in a subject relevant to the research project. Equivalent professional qualifications and any appropriate research experience may be considered. A minimum English language level of IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) with no element below 6.0 is required. Some research disciplines may require higher levels.

Specific requirements of the project: The successful applicant will be able to demonstrate understanding of software development but have some understanding of and a particular interest in adapting ideas and models from other types of system e.g. natural, ecological, physical.

How to Apply

Candidates are encouraged to contact the research supervisor(s) for the project before applying. Applicants should download and complete the GCU Research Application Form (available from: the Project Titleand Reference Number(listed above). Or they may attach an alternative research proposal (see Guidance on writing a research proposal) that is related to the themes and expertise of the School ( The completed GCU Research Application form should be sent with copies of academic qualifications (including IELTS if required), 2 references and any other relevant documentation to: . Applicants shortlisted for a PhD will be contacted for an interview.

Application Deadlines

The PhD programmes commence in 01 October, 01 February or 01 May of each year. The application deadlines are as follows:

Research Degree Fees

Current fee information: