Alp Arslan, the 2024 recipient of the Alumni Postgraduate Research Scholarship, has made remarkable progress in his first year of PhD in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Kent. His research focuses on developing a wearable monitoring system that could transform treatment for male infertility. The scholarship has given Alp the opportunity to pursue his dream of creating biomedical devices that serve humanity.
Since arriving at Kent in 2019 for his undergraduate degree, Alp has grown within the supportive and close-knit Engineering community. After graduating in 2022, he worked as a Technician in the department, gaining valuable skills and building connections while applying for scholarships to continue his studies. The moment he learned his application was successful was unforgettable: “I literally screamed when the email came through—I was just so full of joy!”
Research progress
Over the past year, Alp has achieved several significant milestones. One of his proudest achievements is the development of a drainage vein body phantom—a physical model that replicates human veins to support testing and development of his wearable monitoring system. This model went through multiple iterations and has become a cornerstone of his research.
Collaboration has played a key role in Alp’s progress. He has worked closely with Kent’s Technical Services, the Applied Optics Research Group, and internationally with Professor Dr. Şükrü Kumsar at Istanbul Okan University Hospital, who provides expert clinical guidance. Using Optical Coherence Tomography, Alp has successfully tested and validated the phantom, producing promising results.
Alongside his research, Alp has taken on a teaching role as an Assistant Lecturer in the School of Computing, sharing his skills and experiences with students and inspiring the next generation of engineers and researchers.
Looking ahead
As Alp enters the second year of his PhD, he is focused on the electronics development and testing phase of his wearable monitoring system. This involves designing prototypes capable of monitoring venous parameters in real time, with an emphasis on accuracy, reproducibility, and user-friendliness. Alp, together with his supervisors and collaborators, is also exploring funding opportunities through the Centre for Advanced Diagnostics Development and Application (CADDA) to expand the scope of his research.
His long-term vision is ambitious: Alp hopes to see his device through clinical trials and integrated into NHS treatment pathways, and eventually to establish centres that support future STEM researchers.
Message to donors
Alp is deeply grateful to the donors who have made this scholarship possible.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to live my dream and develop devices that can change lives. I’ll make sure to update you every step of the way, because you are part of my journey and you make it all possible.”
Alp’s pride and joy: a vein model with a valvular cross-section
Alp celebrating graduation alongside his supervisors and students he has mentored
