Standardisation of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Radiotherapy

Second Supervisor: Trevor Esward (National Physical Laboratory)

This project will provide an exciting opportunity to work in a unique collaboration between The Centre for Vision Speech and Signal Processing (CVSSP) at The University of Surrey and The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) with the support of Elekta Limited, to develop test methodologies aiding the next generation of radiotherapy treatment. A very exciting recent research development in radiotherapy is the combination of a radiotherapy treatment machine and a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner,– the MR-linac developed by Elekta. The use of MR in Radiotherapy is already transforming the approach to cancer care. Now with MR-linac research there is hope that a new treatment paradigm will be created. Previously, such detailed imaging could only be performed prior to or after treatment, to assess response to treatment. MR images during treatment will hopefully revolutionize radiation therapy by allowing clinicians to observe the patient’s internal anatomy in real time and to respond to changes. This studentship involves the development of novel phantoms and test objects that will allow for the standardization, validation, auditing and quality control of MR-linac systems. It will be developed in consultation with key end users of the MR-linac who are also working on this research. CVSSP is one of the world’s largest image and signal processing research groups, NPL is an internationally recognized standards laboratory and Elekta is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of radiotherapy equipment including the MR-linac. The successful applicant will be expected to spend time at each partner organization.

How to apply

Please send a cover letter explaining your interest in and qualifications for the project, a CV, and the names and contact details of two referees. Applications and informal enquiries should be sent via e-mail to Prof Phil Evans ([Email Address Removed]). Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above (or equivalent). Shortlisted applicants will be contacted directly to arrange a suitable time for an interview.