1. Background
Pulse oximetry, measuring blood oxygenation using an external sensor, is the ‘fifth vital sign’, after hear rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature. The pulse oximetry waveform, the photoplethysmogram (PPG), is the raw signal analysed by pulse oximeters. We have preliminary data that show that the PPG waveform changes over the months of pregnancy, and that these changes are different in women who develop high blood pressure (hypertension).
2. Novelty & Importance
Currently, there are no large-scale analyses of PPG signal changes in normal and complicated pregnancy, and whether such changes precede complications. Using affordable technology, this could inform the care of women in rural settings in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) where the greatest burdens of risk reside.
3. Aims & Objectives
Our aim is to examine the potential for PPG to inform the care of pregnant women, especially in LMICs where there is limited access to sophisticated ultrasound and radiological imaging.
We have six main objectives:
1. To analyse, understand and characterise the evolution of the PPG signal during physiological pregnancy (defined as a normotensive woman delivering a liveborn, appropriately-grown (birthweight 10th-90th centile for GA) infant at term (≥37+0wk).
2. To identify any PPG patterns that predict the subsequent development of elevated BP, or stage 1, non-severe stage 2, or severe stage 2 hypertension.
3. To identify any PPG patterns that are associated with elevated BP, or stage 1, non-severe stage 2 ,or severe stage 2 hypertension.
4. To identify any PPG patterns that are associated with adverse maternal and perinatal events in women with non-severe or severe stage 2 hypertension.
5. To achieve all of the above using expert clinical analysis and advanced signal processing, machine learning and deep learning techniques.
Back to projects
Utilising pulse oximetry waveforms to optimise pregnancy outcomes
We are now accepting applications for 1 October 2026
How to apply
Candidates should possess or be expected to achieve a 1st or upper 2nd class degree in a relevant subject including the biosciences, computer science, mathematics, statistics, data science, chemistry, physics, and be enthusiastic about combining their expertise with other disciplines in the field of healthcare.
Important information for International Students:
It is the responsibility of the student to apply for their Student Visa. Please note that the EPSRC DRIVE-Health studentship does not cover the visa application fees or the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) required for access to the National Health Service. The IHS is mandatory for anyone entering the UK on a Student Visa and is currently £776 per year for each year of study. Further detail can be found under the International Students tab below.
How to apply
Closing date: 12 January 2026 (23:59 hrs GMT)
Create an account with King’s Apply.
Apply to the EPSRC DRIVE-Health: Centre for Doctoral Training in Data-Driven Health MPhil/PhD (Full-time).
Please ensure you read the full information required on our Apply page, particularly relating to Personal Statement and Supporting Information.
Complete the following sections of the application with all the relevant information.
- A PDF copy of your CV should be uploaded to the Employment History section.
- A 500-word personal statement is required outlining your motivation for undertaking postgraduate research with the CDT, and you only need to choose one way to provide it. You can either type it directly into the application form (maximum 4,000 characters) or upload it as a separate document if you have a longer statement (maximum two pages).
- Please nominate up to 3 projects of particular interest by quoting the project codes in the research proposal section of the online application form.
Funding:
Please choose Option 5 “I am applying for a funding award or scholarship administered by King’s College London” in the funding section.
Under “Award Scheme Code or Name” enter “EPSRC DRIVE-Health 2026”.
Failing to include one of these codes might result in you not being considered for funding.
Questions marked * are mandatory and you will not be able to submit without answering.
Non-EU international applicants are advised that ATAS may be required. While there is no charge to apply for ATAS, processing can take up to 3 months. Please read the Important Information for International Students.
Funding
Enhanced Studentships to Attract Top Talent
Each studentship is fully funded for 4 years.
This includes tuition fees, a stipend and a generous allowance for project consumables.
Tuition Fees: these will be covered for both Home and International students.
Stipend: students will receive a tax-free living allowance of £25,403.40 per year (current projection for Academic Year 2026/27).
Research Training Support Grant (RTSG): up to £20,000 over 4 years for research consumables and attending national and international conferences.
International
Important Information for International Students
It is the responsibility of the student to apply for their Student Visa.
Please note that the EPSRC DRIVE-Health studentship does not cover the visa application fees or the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) required for access to the National Health Service. The IHS is mandatory for anyone entering the UK on a Student Visa and is currently £776 per year for each year of study.
Additionally, depending on your chosen project, some nationals may need to apply for an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate prior to applying for a visa. The ATAS application process can take up to 3 months and so it is essential that you apply for this early. Please note the following:
• If you need to apply for a student visa, you cannot submit your visa application until your ATAS certificate has been issued.
• If you are applying for any other visa, you cannot enrol at King’s and start your programme unless your ATAS certificate has been issued.
• If you apply late, you may not be able to join on the expected entry point and your registration may be postponed
Please review the following article for further information on the ATAS certificate and how to apply:Do I need ATAS clearance before I start my course at King’s?
For further advice, please contact the Visas & International Student Advice as soon as possible.
Eligibilty
Academic Requirements and Eligibility
We welcome eligible Home and International applicants from any personal background who are pleased to join diverse and friendly research groups.
Open to Home and International applicants.
Applicable level of study: Postgraduate research.
English Language Requirements (Band D)
Based on the IELTS test scoring system, this programme requires that successful candidates achieve the following level of English before enrolling. Successful applicants’ offer letters will include information about when they must have achieved this standard.
Overall: 6.5
Listening: 6
Speaking: 6
Reading: 6
Writing: 6
Visit our admissions webpages to view our English language entry requirements.