Ultrasound (US) imaging for non-invasive and rapid detection of sub-cutaneous infections

Apply and key information

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)

Summary

Low-cost, rapid and non-invasive detection of sub-cutaneous infection is an unmet medical diagnostic need. The availability of such diagnostic would translate into improved patient care and reduced HNS costs.

A small number of specialized US medical imaging systems can detect the viscoelasticity of body tissue but no commercial systems can characterise body fluids, particularly differentiating between healthy and infected fluids.

This project is addressing this challenge proposing to build a prototype ultrasound (US) medical imaging system that can measure the viscosity of body fluid.

It is a partnership between a team of UU academics with complementary expertise, two orthopedic surgeons and one consultant cardiologist, respectively from Musgrave Park hospital and the Southern Trust.

These clinicians will advise on relevant injury scenarios and therefore assist with identifying designs adaptable to commercial US imaging systems.

After an initial review of the relevant literature and some exposure to real-time US imaging within a Hospital setting, a modelling study will be carried out to identify conditions for US detection of fluid viscosity.

A bench test will then be designed and constructed as well as a 3D-printed US phantom model to mimic both body tissue and fluid.

This phantom will be tested to represent specific infection scenarios. With a finalised proof of concept, the project will design a small footprint detection system which can be inserted as an ‘add-on’ to an existing commercial US medical imaging system.

This ‘add on’ apparatus is the main outcome of the project.

Upon completion of this PhD studentship, further studies will take place to test the device on patients, subject to adequate research ethical approval.

Ultimately, both the NHS and a medical instrumentation manufacturer will be approached to commercialize this innovation so as to bring the expected benefits in improved patient outcomes and reduced NHS cost.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

First Class Honours (1st) Degree
Masters at 65%
Work experience relevant to the proposed project
Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)

This scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000* (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance). A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum is also available.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a UK National, or

Have settled status, or

Have pre-settled status, or

Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period