Mathematical modelling for drug delivery using bubbles

Cancer drugs are usually toxic and kill both cancer cells and healthy ones, but typically less than 0.5% of the drug dose reaches cancer cells. Encapsulated microbubbles (EMBs) have been demonstrated as promising technology for drug delivery. After intravenous injection, EMBs flow within the blood stream. At the site of the tumour, EMBs are activated to violent collapse by ultrasound, releasing the drug being carried. The fundamental mechanism for the technology is bubble dynamics in a blood vessel.

Birmingham bubble group has been established for more than 30 years and is recognised as a world leader in the mathematics of bubbles. We have established computational capabilities for 3D bubbles using the advanced boundary element method as well as volume of fluid. Information on our research areas and expertise can be found at:

https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/mathematics/bubble-dynamics/index.aspx

The PhD candidate will develop the capability for the modelling of encapsulated bubbles based on our 3D bubble code. This involves implementing suitable models for simulating the deformation of the coatings of encapsulated bubbles and blood vessel walls.

Suitable candidates should have a good honours degree in Applied Mathematics, Physics, Fluid Dynamics, Civil or Mechanical Engineering, Oceanography or related subjects. Candidates should have excellent written and oral communication skills. It would also be advantageous if they have a master degree or had previous research experience in fluid mechanics or structural mechanics.