Development of multimodal optical microscopy for imaging tumour margins during skin cancer surgery

The aim of cancer surgery is to remove the whole tumour while leaving in place as much healthy tissue as possible (tissue conserving surgery). This surgery is challenging because surgeons lack accurate imaging tools to assess the surgical margins and confirm that the entire cancer was cut out. Therefore, there is a risk of incomplete tumour resection or cutting out too much healthy tissue.

In this inter-disciplinary PhD project, we aim to develop new optical microscopy techniques based on fluorescence imaging and Raman spectroscopy that can be used by surgeons, in the operating theatre, to identify the margins of the tumour. The images and microscopy data will be analysed using a range of machine learning techniques and artificial intelligence.

This project is based on a long-term collaboration between the Biophotonics Group (School of Physics and Astronomy), Centre for Evidence-Based Dermatology (School of Medicine) and the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. The research has been funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the National Institute for Health Research. This fully-funded PhD studentship is supported by the British Skin Foundation.

For further information about the projects please contact Ioan Notingher (ioan.notingher@nottingham.ac.uk )

The candidates should have a 1st or 2:1 degree in physics, chemistry, or biomedical engineering. They should have evidence of strong skills in optics. Basic experience of computer programming would be an advantage.