Spatially Fractionated Radiotherapy in the Proton therapy research room

This project aims to design and add a capability for spatially fractionated radiotherapy (SFRT) to the research beamline in the research room in The Christie clinical proton therapy centre. By SFRT we mean delivering the proton beam as a series of mini beams. There is growing international interest in SFRT as it appears to be capable of sparing normal tissue whilst still suppressing tumour growth. The added advantage for proton beams is that the lateral spread of the beam allows it to be tailored so that the tumour to be fully covered. SFRT like ultra-high dose rate (FLASH) appears to spare normal tissue and suppress tumour growth. At present the interface between these two modalities is only just beginning to be explored and whether some of the mechanisms involved are the same or different is currently unknown. Adding SFRT to the capabilities of the research room, alongside FLASH makes it one of the few facilities, internationally with these capabilities and will allow these two technologies to be evaluated side by side. This PhD will be involved in the design and build of this new facility.

Applicants are expected to hold (or about to obtain) a minimum upper second class undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in Physics or Engineering. A Masters degree in a relevant subject and/or experience in medical physics is also desirable. For more information please contact Prof Karen Kirkby karen.kirkby@manchester.ac.uk