Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for two full-time, fixed-term positions as Postdoctoral Researchers (with specialisation in Bioelectronic Circuits & Applications and/or Medical Electronics) in the research group of Dr. Soumyajyoti Maji, within the Discipline of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Galway, Ireland.

These positions are funded by Disruptive Technologies Innovation Funding (DTIF) and are available immediately to 1st May 2027.

Overview of the project: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent and deadly heart rhythm disorder, affecting over 43 million people worldwide, with significant risks and increasing prevalence, especially among those over 50. In Ireland, 1 in 4 people over 50 are at risk of AF, and the burden of AF is expected to increase by 70% by 2050. AF is often asymptomatic, leading to a high risk of stroke due to undetected blood clots, with 90% of cases presenting no symptoms until a stroke occurs. Current detection methods, like the 24-hour Holter monitor, have a very low detection rate for silent AF, and only a small percentage of patients receive the necessary prolonged monitoring through invasive devices. A non-invasive, reliable detection method is urgently needed to prevent strokes and reduce healthcare costs. This DTIF (DT20230460) project in collaboration with Galenband Ltd. and PA Consulting Ltd. aims to develop a wearable cardiac telemetry system that can record heart data for 90 days on a single charge, approaching the detection ability of surgically implantable monitors without requiring surgery. The device is envisioned to be worn on the upper left arm and automatically transmit data to a platform for rapid clinical intervention, offering a significant improvement over alternatives like the Holter monitor. The project's goal is to reduce stroke rates by enhancing AF detection, which could save healthcare systems substantial costs while providing timely and effective treatment for patients.

Salary: Postdoctoral Researchers salary scale €44,346 - €56,764 per annum, (subject to the project’s funding limitations), and pro rata for shorter and/or part-time contracts.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 17:00 (Irish Time) on 25th October 2024. It will not be possible to consider applications received after the closing date.

Please review full job description for further details and essential requirements: