PhD Studentship in Magnetic Resonance Imaging System Engineering: 3D Image Processing Software

Applications are invited for a research studentship in the field of Magnetic Resonance Imaging system engineering leading to the award of a PhD degree.

Recent research in the Department has resulted in the development of a novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system designed to exploit field-related anisotropies of collagen. Conventional MRI cannot accurately diagnose tissues such as ligaments, tendons and cartilage because the received signal is too weak and those tissues appear very dark. However the signal intensity can be significantly increased changing the orientation of the main field to the subject, and is maximized if the angle is 55 degrees (the “Magic Angle” effect). The prototype MRI employs a magnet that can be rotated about 2 axes and it is particularly well suited for the imaging of limbs. Also, by using image processing techniques to analyse the signal variation with the field angle, it is possible to obtain important new information about tissue microstructures. The aim of the current project is to carry out the necessary technical work related to MRI system and image processing and to conduct early stage clinical trials.

This PhD project will focus on the image processing software that is necessary to process and analyse 3D image data. This will primarily involve computer graphics, registration, MRI image analysis and graphical user interface. Integration with MRI spectrometer system and the magnet positioning system will also be required. Programming will be performed primarily in C++ and possibly Python. The work will demand a high level of practical skill to produce reliable high quality software, and it will also involve liaison with medical specialists who will be the ultimate users.

You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who meets the academic requirements for enrolment for the PhD degree at Imperial College London. You will have a 1st class or 2:1 honours degree in Computing or Engineering or a related subject, and an enquiring and rigorous approach to research together with a strong intellect and disciplined work habits. Strong interest and experience in computer graphics and software development for medical image processing are essential. Good team-working, observational and communication skills are essential.

To find out more about research at Imperial College London in this area, go to:
http://www-staging.imperial.ac.uk/engineering/departments/mechanical-engineering/research/applied-mechanics/medical-engineering/magnetic-resonance-imaging/

For information on how to apply, go to:
http://www.imperial.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/study/phd/how-to-apply/

Interested applicants should send an up-to-date curriculum vitae to Dr Mike Ristic [Email Address Removed]. Suitable candidates will be required to complete an electronic application form at Imperial College London in order for their qualifications to be addressed by College Registry.

Closing date: until post filled

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