PhD Studentship in Medical Imaging Instrumentation – development of a prototype thermoacoustic imaging system

Summary:

The aim of the studentship is to develop an exciting medical imaging technique based on the thermoacoustic effect. In this technique, pulsed RF/microwave excitation is used to generate ultrasound in biological tissue. By detecting the ultrasound waves, high resolution images of tissue can be formed [1, 2]

The studentship is available in the Birmingham Photoacoustic Group which is developing innovative medical imaging technologies. This is an interdisciplinary research group jointly affiliated to the Engineering and Medical Colleges at the University of Birmingham and collaborates extensively with the Department of Medical Physics at UCL.

Background and aims:

Medical imaging techniques have revolutionised medical practice by providing detailed anatomical and functional information about the human body, to detect and treat various diseases. When RF/Microwave excitation is used in medical imaging, the aim is to exploit the difference in dielectric properties between various tissue types and tissue pathologies. Typically, electromagnetic waves in the RF/Microwave part of the Electromagnetic spectrum (0.3-3GHz) are transmitted and detected by antennas to form an image of the dielectric properties of the tissue. However, the images have poor resolution due to the inverse relationship between the RF/Microwave frequencies necessary to achieve large image penetration depth and the wavelength which determines the resolution. Thermoacoustic imaging can address this limitation by using RF/Microwaves to generate ultrasound waves in tissue. By detecting of the ultrasound waves using an array of ultrasound transducers, a high-resolution image of the dielectric properties of the tissue can be reconstructed, because ultrasound waves have much shorter wavelength than RF/microwaves.

This aim of this PhD project is to develop and characterise a prototype thermoacoustic scanner and evaluate the imaging performance. The specific aims of the project include:

·        Design and construct hardware for a prototype thermoacoustic scanner.

·        Develop scanner control and data acquisition software.

·        Develop and characterise the dielectric properties of tissue mimicking phantoms

·        Model RF/microwave deposition to tissue using 3D EM modelling tools (such as CST)

·        Undertake experimental imaging studies in tissue mimicking phantoms and ex vivo tissue.

·        Contributing to scientific talks, meetings, discussions and other group activities.

Who We’re Looking For:

-        Enthusiastic research interest: You will be keen to perform specialized research developing thermoacoustic imaging technology to impact in biology and medicine.

-        Academic Excellence: You have a solid academic background with a Master’s degree at a 2.1 level or above in a relevant subject e.g. Electronic/Electrical Engineering, Physics, Medical Physics, Biomedical Engineering etc, and may have existing knowledge in RF/Microwaves, electromagnetism, ultrasound, medical imaging, data acquisition, data analysis and coding.

-        Dedicated researchers: You are committed to advancing the field of medical imaging by performing research to the highest standard. You have the ability and willingness to manage your own time, self-direct and develop your research skills with the support of your team.

-        Effective collaborators: You are keen to contribute positively to our research group culture and will engage in broader activities such as group meetings, University seminars, scientific events and conferences.                                                                          

How to apply:

Eligible applicants should first send an expression of interest to Dr Ollie Ogunlade.

Please include:

-        CV including your academic and research experience and the names of two referees.

-        Cover letter explaining your relevant experience, why you wish to apply, why you are a suitable candidate, and your research and professional goals.

-        Degree transcripts (if available).

-        A previous research report written by you (if available).

Selected applicants will be interviewed. After the interview, the successful applicant will be instructed to apply online for the PhD in the Department of Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering via the University of Birmingham website.

Informal enquiries are also welcome to Dr Ollie Ogunlade (o.ogunlade@bham.ac.uk)

Applicants are encouraged to get in touch and apply as early as possible because they may be short-listed and interviewed on a first-come-first-serve basis prior to the closing date.