Project Overview:
Movement analysis and recording in humans has been confined to dedicated gait and motion capture facilities, but this only records movements for a single part of one day in an unusual environment. In contrast, medical conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and stroke, are variable and there may be key phenomena that would be difficult to collect in a gait lab. The University of Reading now has the capability to collect sensor rich data in long-term studies where sensors are embedded into clothes thus enabling measurement and analysis of movements over extended periods. Initial studies have collected acceleration and gyroscope data (inertial measurements) from individuals with Parkinson’s disease and stroke and we are looking to extend these studies as well as collect data from other activities relating to health and wellbeing. The student will explore these data sources and will research methods of combining biomechanics and data mining techniques to identify key features of movement. The goal will be to build dynamic models of human activities such as walking, sitting, and standing, as well as transitions such as stand-to-sit. Techniques will include machine learning and other statistical pattern recognition approaches
School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading:
The University of Reading, located west of London, England, provides world-class research education programs. The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, a 30-minute train ride to central London and 40 minutes from London Heathrow airport.
Our School of Biological Sciences conducts high-impact research, tackling current global challenges faced by society and the planet. Our research ranges from understanding and improving human health and combating disease, through to understanding evolutionary processes and uncovering new ways to protect the natural world. In 2020, we moved into a stunning new ~£60 million Health & Life Sciences building. This state-of-the-art facility is purpose-built for science research and teaching. It houses the Cole Museum of Zoology, a café and social spaces.
In the School of Biological Sciences, you will be joining a vibrant community of ~180 PhD students representing ~40 nationalities. Our students publish in high-impact journals, present at international conferences, and organise a range of exciting outreach and public engagement activities.
During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision in one-to-one and small group sessions. You will have access to cutting-edge technology and learn the latest research techniques. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If English is not your first language, the University's excellent International Study and Language Institute will help you develop your academic English skills.
The University of Reading is a welcoming community for people of all faiths and cultures. We are committed to a healthy work-life balance and will work to ensure that you are supported personally and academically.
Eligibility:
Applicants should have a good degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent) in engineering, mathematics or a strongly-related discipline. Applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional courses that can help with meeting these requirements.
How to apply:
Apply for a PhD in Biomedical Engineering at
How to apply – University of Reading
Further information:
http://www.reading.ac.uk/biologicalsciences/SchoolofBiologicalSciences/PhD/sbs-phd.aspx