Fully Funded PhD - Imaging at the Life Sciences Interface

The research focus of the Doctoral Training Centre is on developing the chemistry, physics, engineering and computer sciences that underpin imaging to address key problems in biology and medicine.

Programme

Our training programme aims to develop a generation of scientists for whom the principles of imaging, physics, chemistry, molecular biology, bioengineering, physiology and data analysis form an intellectual continuum. Our students work with world-class researchers including physical scientists (chemists, engineers, physicists), computer scientists and life scientists to develop expertise in different imaging techniques involving molecular probe design, complex modelling and analysis of images and image-derived data, with biomedical applications at a number of leading medical and bioscience research institutes.

We run an integrated 4-year PhD programme. In the first year students train as a cohort and combine taught and practical work to gain the necessary theoretical foundations, laboratory and practical skills for cross-disciplinary research at the Life Sciences Interface. Six tailor-made taught modules and three mini-projects are combined with training in communication skills, public understanding of science and knowledge transfer. After the first year (which can be awarded an MSc) students will engage in an individual specialised research projects for the next three-years. Each project will involve three elements: a biological system, one or more imaging technologies, and advanced analysis of the system or image data generated. A wide range of research topics are available including:

• New molecular markers and probes
• Nano-imaging and nano-microscopy
• NMR/MRI/micro-MRI
• Image analysis and computational modelling
• Intelligent data analysis and optimisation
• Motion and dynamics

The Doctoral Training Centre programme builds on the large scientific, medical and engineering base of the University of Birmingham and upon established existing cross-discipline collaborations at the Life Sciences Interface. Students will have access to excellent imaging and laboratory facilities and other dedicated instrumentation available for research in Metabolomics, Genomics, Proteomics and Systems Biology. More information about our work is available from the PSIBS website at the PSIBS website.

Entry Requirements

Applications for programme entry in 2011 and 2012 are open to students that have or expect to obtain a good 2:1 (Hons) or 1st class degree (or equivalent EU/overseas degree) in Physical Sciences (e.g. Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science), Natural Sciences, Computer Science, Mathematics or Engineering.

Full details regarding eligibility for EPSRC funded studentships is available for download from the EPSRC website.

Learn More

Professor Mike Hannon
Email: PSIBS@contacts.bham.ac.uk           Tel: +44 (0)121 414 8808