PhD Studentship: Multi-Modal Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Single Subject Assessment in Traumatic Brain Injury

University of Cambridge – Division of Anaesthesia, School of Clinical Medicine

Qualification type: PhD
Location: Cambridge, UK
Funding for: UK students, EU students
Funding amount available: University fees of £7362 + maintenance grant of £14,057 per year
Hours: Full Time
Lead supervisor: Professor David Menon
Project duration: 3 years, extendable to 4 years
Closing date: 21st May 2015

Project Description
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a PhD student to work in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) research at the Division of Anaesthesia, University of Cambridge. The research will focus on development of methods for single-subject assessment in mild and severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) patients, using multi-modal MRI data (including structural MRI, diffusion weighted imaging and functional resting state). The successful candidate will also apply the methods developed to the data currently being acquired as part of the large multi-centre study CENTER-TBI (www.center-tbi.eu/). Each patient will be scanned on several occasions (ranging from the acute phase up to several months to years post injury). The main aim of this project is to develop and optimise methods for the analysis of multi-centre multi-modal MRI data, with a particular view to obtain metrics at the single-subject level which are able to predict patient recovery and outcome. During this project, the successful candidate will therefore develop experience in a broad range of MRI techniques, while working at the interface between the clinical environment and the biophysical sciences.

Person Specification
We are looking for a highly motivated person with a strong interest in research in clinical imaging. It is desirable that the applicant holds a Master’s Degree in Neuroimaging, Medical Physics, Biomedical Engineering, or equivalent. However, applications from students with a background in Computer Sciences, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Neuroscience and Medicine are also highly encouraged, as long as they have demonstrable experience with one or more relevant programming languages. Previous experience with analysis of MRI data will also be an advantage.

How to apply
Interested candidates should submit a CV (max two A4 pages) and a covering letter (max one A4 page) that describes their background/research interests, and how they fit in with the current project, which should be sent to Mrs Jane Miller ([Email Address Removed]), along with contact details of two academic references. Shortlisted candidates will have the opportunity to discuss the post and project with senior researchers in the group, and will have a face-to-face or telephone interview prior to appointment. The Division of Anaesthesia will contribute to reimbursing travel costs for shortlisted applicants invited for interview, up to a maximum of £100. Applicants from outside the European Union who wish to apply for this studentship are welcome to do so, but may need to make independent arrangements for funding the increased University fees that would be applicable.