Fluorescence Fluctuation Multispectral Microscopy for Intraoperative Cancer Margin Assessment

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented individual to join our research team as a PhD student. The successful candidate will work on a project aimed at developing a novel super-resolution fluorescence fluctuation multispectral microscopy technique for intraoperative cancer margin assessment. This project has the potential to revolutionise cancer diagnosis and treatment. 

About the Project 

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide; in the UK alone, approximately 167,000 people die from cancer each year. Current methods for intraoperative cancer margin assessment are time-consuming, technically demanding, and prone to subjective interpretation. Our project aims to address these limitations by developing a robust, rapid, and accurate method for surgical oncology assessment and diagnosis, improving patients' wellbeing and diminishing healthcare costs related to re-excision procedures. 

The successful candidate will work on the development of Fluorescence Fluctuation Multispectral Microscopy with Ultraviolet Surface Excitation (FFM-MUSE), which leverages fluorescence fluctuations and the spectral characteristics of endogenous molecules for efficient, super-resolution, label-free histopathological imaging of excised tissues. The project encompasses three major work packages: (1) Integrating innovative photonic chips into conventional MUSE for expedited, high-resolution histopathological imaging; (2) Employing parallel computing and deep learning for real-time image reconstruction in super-resolution fluorescence fluctuations microscopy; (3) Incorporating advanced multispectral imaging with fluorescence fluctuations MUSE, enabling molecular structural mapping with spectral characterisation. 

Research Environment 

The student will be co-supervised by Prof. Michael Somekh FREng at the University of Nottingham and Prof. Lin Wang at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL).

The student will primarily carry out the proposed research at the RAL, located in the beautiful, rural area of South Oxfordshire, UK. RAL is one of the UK's largest and most diverse multidisciplinary research laboratories. As part of the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)’s Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), RAL provides cutting-edge facilities and expertise in a wide range of scientific areas and plays a key role in national and international scientific collaborations, driving innovation and addressing global challenges. Our laboratories reside within the Research Complex at Harwell (RCaH), a renowned research institute recognised for its world-leading multidisciplinary scientific research in the life and physical sciences. The student will become an active member of a small research team embedded in a large national imaging facility, benefiting from full attention from committed supervisors and abundant resources and assistance. The student will receive extensive training in the development and prototyping of advanced optical microscopy and will gain the opportunity to observe the applications of various optical imaging methods in different biological and medical sciences. 

The student will also have access to world-class research facilities in the Optics and Photonics Research Group at the University of Nottingham. As one of the largest research groups in the Faculty of Engineering, the group pushes the boundaries of light and sound, translating cutting-edge discoveries into tangible technologies. From developing revolutionary ultrasound microscopes for single-cell imaging to designing smart textiles for advanced patient monitoring, the research transforms healthcare and industry. 

Requirements 

Applicants should have at least an upper-second class degree (or equivalent) in Physics or Engineering. A Master's degree or other research experience is beneficial, though applicants will be assessed relative to their career stage. 

Practical experience in either optics, imaging, or programming would be beneficial, but training in all required skills will be provided. Applicants wishing to pursue a career in advanced microscopy and biological/medical imaging are highly encouraged to apply. 

Eligibility and Application 

The position is open for both UK home and international candidates. 

PhD Start date: 1 October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

For further information, informal enquiries can be made to Prof. Lin Wang at [Email Address Removed] and Prof. Michael Somekh at [Email Address Removed]