PhD studentship: Next-generation cancer diagnosis and treatment using integrated snake-like robot with optical imaging.

Ph.D. Studentship: Revolutionizing Bile Duct Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment with Biophotonics and Robotics

This fully-funded Ph.D. studentship presents an exceptional opportunity for a driven and ambitious candidate to contribute to a groundbreaking project at the forefront of medical technology. The research focuses on developing innovative solutions for the early detection and targeted treatment of bile duct cancer, a disease with a significant and growing impact. If you are passionate about applying cutting-edge biophotonics and engineering principles to address critical health challenges, this role offers a unique and rewarding career path.

The Opportunity: A Multidisciplinary Approach to a Critical Need

This Ph.D. project is designed to tackle the challenge of bile duct cancer through the synergistic integration of advanced optical imaging and novel robotic technologies. The core of the research involves developing an ultra-thin, snake-like robotic probe equipped with state-of-the-art Raman spectroscopy and optical fibre imaging capabilities. This probe aims to provide high-resolution 3D mapping of cancerous tissue, enabling precise diagnosis and paving the way for localized treatment strategies.

You will have the distinct advantage of working within a world-class, multidisciplinary team comprising experts from the School of Physics and Astronomy and the Faculty of Engineering. This collaborative environment fosters exceptional interdisciplinary training, allowing you to gain a comprehensive understanding of diverse scientific and engineering domains.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Researchers:

• Cutting-Edge Research: Immerse yourself in a pioneering project that combines Raman spectroscopy, advanced fibre optics, and medical robotics to address a critical unmet medical need.
• Interdisciplinary Expertise: Benefit from direct mentorship and collaboration with leading academics in biophotonics (Prof. Ioan Notingher), optical fibre imaging (Dr. George Gordon), and medical robotics (Dr. Abdelkhalick Mohammad). This exposure will broaden your skillset and perspective significantly.
• Fully Funded: This studentship is fully funded for 3.5 years, covering both a competitive stipend and PhD fees, allowing you to focus entirely on your research.
• Publication and Dissemination: The opportunity to produce high-quality publications in reputable journals and present your findings at international conferences is a key component of this role, accelerating your academic profile.
• Supportive Research Environment: You will be joining an institution committed to the development and well-being of its researchers, as evidenced by their signatory status to the Researcher Development Concordat.
• Impactful Contribution: Play a direct role in developing technologies that have the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes for a serious and growing disease.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Academic Foundation: A strong first degree in Physics or Engineering is essential. This will provide the foundational knowledge required to engage with the complex scientific and technical aspects of the project.
• Interest in Optics and Programming: A genuine interest in optics is paramount. Furthermore, some proficiency in computer programming will be highly beneficial for data analysis, simulation, and control systems.
• Eagerness to Learn: This project inherently demands cross-disciplinary learning. A strong desire to acquire new skills in complementary fields, such as spectroscopy, fibre optics, and robotics, is crucial for success.
• Commitment to Research: A Ph.D. is a significant undertaking. Candidates should possess a high level of dedication, perseverance, and a passion for scientific discovery.
• Project Alignment: Consider your long-term career aspirations. This studentship is ideal for those seeking to specialize in biophotonics, medical imaging, or biomedical engineering, with a focus on translational research.

This Ph.D. studentship offers a compelling pathway for individuals looking to make a tangible difference in healthcare through innovation. If you are excited by the prospect of pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and developing technologies that can revolutionize cancer diagnosis and treatment, we encourage you to explore this exceptional opportunity.