The UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in Accountable, Responsible and Transparent AI (ART-AI) at the University of Bath is inviting applications for a PhD project based in the Department of Computer Science and under the joint supervision of Dr Mohammad Golbabaee (Computer Science dept.) and Dr Matthias Ehrhardt (Mathematics dept.). The position is an opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research at the intersection of computational medical imaging, machine learning and mathematical analysis, with the possibility of collaboration with world leading healthcare industries.
This project is concerned with the development of interpretable and transparent machine/deep learning algorithms for image reconstruction in medical imaging.
Image reconstruction is a computational process that deals with the formation of an image from abstract data obtained from sensory measurements. An example where these techniques find an application is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) which is omnipresent in modern medicine with applications ranging from neurology to oncology. Challenges such as missing/incomplete data, noise and artefacts are inherent to imaging applications and are dealt with by computational algorithms e.g., for image super-resolution or compressed sensing [1-3]. While AI in the form of deep learning algorithms produces state-of-the-art results, the opaque nature of deep neural networks has made it difficult to understand and interpret the results [4]. Addressing these factors are crucial for medical imaging applications and for enabling the clinical up take of these methodologies.
In this project you will bridge this gap by developing new algorithms and analysis techniques for computational medical imaging towards transparent and reliable solutions to the aforementioned problems. You are expected to further advance current developments within this theme including (but not limited to) reliable generative models to capture prior knowledge about data and their transparent and inspectable integration within model-based (possibly optimisation-inspired) image reconstruction algorithms [5-9]. The project outcomes may involve research papers in which the developed methodologies are backed with theoretical analysis and guarantees for the predicted outcomes, and/or involve software solutions that enable inspection by visualising, analysing and explaining predictions made by the deep learning model.
Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree in Computing, Mathematics, Engineering or a related subject. A master’s level qualification would be advantageous. A strong background in mathematics is essential. Good programming skill and experience of machine learning are highly desirable.
Formal applications should be accompanied by a research proposal and made via the University of Bath’s online application form. Enquiries about the application process should be sent to [Email Address Removed].
Start date: 3 October 2022.