Rapid, low-cost non-invasive detection of sub-cutaneous infection based on ultrasound imaging

Summary

Low-cost, rapid and non-invasive detection of sub-cutaneous infections is an unmet medical diagnostic need. Such diagnostic would translate into improved patient care as well as reduced NHS costs.

The project is addressing this challenge proposing to build a prototype US imaging system to measure the viscosity of body fluids, differentiating between healthy and infected fluids.

It is designed as 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 clinical scenarios and therefore assist with identifying candidate designs adaptable to commercial US imaging systems.

The bulk of the work will be undertaken by the PhD student. After an initial review of the relevant literature and some exposure to real-time US imaging within an 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.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject area
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

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.

• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a First Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject area
• International applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to a distinction at Ulster
• Experience or knowledge of research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Track record of peer reviewed publications

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)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

PhD Scholarships are available for this project and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

To be eligible for these scholarships applicants must: be a UK or Irish national; or have pre-settled or settled status; or have indefinite leave to remain or enter.

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 i.e. September 2027.

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, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.