Computational Studies of Haemodynamic Properties in Arteriovenous Fistula and Peripheral Arteries

Understanding the haemodynamic properties in coronary artery and renal dialysis venous access (DVA) in patients will help to improve the performance and longevity of renal DVA and coronary stent which underpins the life supporting haemodialysis techniques. There is evidence that arterial flow patterns and wall shear stresses are related to the site and severity of arterial disease and the performance of an arteriovenous (AV) graft or fistulae. Hence, it important to estimate haemodynamic properties such as flow patterns and wall shear stress distributions in the blood flow/arterial wall system. The objective of the study is to build up a mathematical-physical model for the interaction of the blood flow and artery vessel wall, called a fluid-structure (solid) interaction model. An accurate estimation of the mechanical property can help on diagnosis and disease treatment or health care and show the importance of the study of blood flow and artery mechanics in bio-medical applications.

The study includes the following steps:

1. The data collection from Ninewells Hospital is a major step of the project. The feasibility, reliability and validity of modelling and computational results can only be proved by comparing with the actual human blood flow data;

2. Develop proper mathematical models and their computational methods for the blood flow and its interaction with the fistulae and artery wall;

3. Characterise the flow patterns, wall stresses, geometries and other haemodynamic factors to assess their role in the haemodynamic behaviour of the flow-artery system.

4. Develop better implantable medical graft or fistulae and eventually influence plans of improving patient outcomes.

For informal enquiries about the project, contact Prof Ping Lin ([Email Address Removed])

For general enquiries about the University of Dundee, contact [Email Address Removed]

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must have obtained, or expect to obtain, a first or 2.1 UK honours degree, or equivalent for degrees obtained outside the UK in a relevant discipline.

English language requirement: IELTS (Academic) score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 5.5 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s English language requirements are available online: www.dundee.ac.uk/guides/english-language-requirements.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Email Professor Ping Lin ([Email Address Removed]) to (1) send a copy of your CV and (2) discuss your potential application and any practicalities (e.g. suitable start date).

Step 2: After discussion with Professor Lin, formal applications can be made via our direct application system. When applying, please follow the instructions below:

Apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Mathematics: Mathematics research degrees | University of Dundee.

Please select the study mode (full-time/part-time) and start date agreed with the lead supervisor.

In the Research Proposal section, please:

-       Enter the lead supervisor’s name in the ‘proposed supervisor’ box

-       Enter the project title listed at the top of this page in the ‘proposed project title’ box

In the ‘personal statement’ section, please outline your suitability for the project selected.