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This 12 month project, funded by the University of Nottingham and leading to the award of MRes, will use X-ray computerised tomography (X-rayCT) to study the microstructure of eggshell. The aim is to analyse and quantify parameters which reflect developmental processes and define commercially important characteristics. The results will improve our understanding of eggshell formation and provide the basis for selecting, feeding and managing poultry to promote commercially desirable traits.
X-rayCT has not been applied to eggshell previously. Thus the project will generate entirely novel data and information. The technique is simple and rapid, generating 2-D and 3-D images of shell matrix which can be easily quantified. Features such as thickness, crystal orientation, pore size and shell-membrane interaction will be visualised and measured.
Although these parameters are known to define some commercially important characteristics of eggs, including crack resistance, hatchability and microbiological safety, their biological basis is poorly understood. This project will establish reference data for shell characteristics, point to the biological processes which determine them and open up new areas of research.
The student will become familiar with X-rayCT and will develop simple algorithms for the efficient analysis and quantification of images. He/she will develop a good understanding of avian reproductive physiology and the mechanisms of egg and shell formation and will start to establish links between these processes and the structural, mechanical, biophysical and commercial characteristics of eggs.
Funding Notes:
Award Start Date: Start of the 2012/13 academic year (Monday 24 Sept, 2012)
Duration of Award: 12 months
Eligibility Requirements:
Essential: Good honours degree (1st/2:1) in a biological or other relevant scientific subject
Essential: Sound understanding of basic mathematics, plus numerical and statistical competence.
Desirable: Interest in structural biology, biophysics, biomaterials or related areas
Method by which candidates should apply: Please send CV and names of two referees to: martin.luck@nottingham.ac.uk, with “Eggshell MRes” in the subject line.
Informal enquiries can be made to the same email address.