Development of a wearable electro-impedance tomography system for early breast cancer screening

About the project

About the Project Imagine a future where a simple piece of clothing could help save lives. This PhD project aims to develop a revolutionary smart bra that uses gentle, safe electrical signals to detect breast cancer earlier than ever before. Unlike traditional scans that are often expensive, uncomfortable, or inaccessible, this wearable device will offer women a non-invasive, radiation-free, and repeatable way to monitor their breast health from the comfort of home. By combining smart wearable technology with advanced algorithms, the project has the potential to transform cancer detection and empower women with real-time insights into their own health. Desired skills We are seeking a motivated and ambitious PhD candidate with a strong background in signal processing, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, or computer science. Experience with bioelectrical signals, wearable sensor systems, or medical imaging will be highly valuable. The ideal candidate will enjoy working at the intersection of hardware and algorithms — from developing experimental setups and building acquisition systems to designing advanced signal processing pipelines and machine learning methods for tumour detection. Strong analytical skills, creativity, and the ability to collaborate across engineering, clinical, and textile research teams are essential. This project offers a unique opportunity to apply advanced signal processing expertise to a wearable device that has the potential to transform early breast cancer detection. Find out more about this project and other projects on our website here. The Auckland Bioengineering Institute - breaking boundaries in bioengineering for more than 20 years At the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI), we apply engineering and technical innovation to advancing medical care, human capability, and understanding of human physiology. Our team of world-renowned researchers are working on everything from artificial intelligence avatars, to implantable devices, to digital models of the human body. Our focus on research excellence and commercialisation adds value to society and to the global economy. Our research makes a real difference in the world. We’ve designed sensors to diagnose stomach disease without needing invasive surgery; developed a tiny wireless implantable device to measure brain pressure and save the lives of children with hydrocephalus; and we lead the world in building digital models of the human body which will enhance personalised medicine approaches for improved diagnosis and treatment. Join our team of researchers for a postgraduate degree and together we can make a difference. Our graduates are amongst the most employable in the world - many either continue their career in research, find employment with industry leaders such as Rocket Lab or Fisher & Paykel, or launch their own startup companies. Our students come from over 50 different countries and a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines, including Engineering, Medicine, Mathematics and Science. Want to know what our students think about studying at the ABI? Watch this video!

Research areas