Developing a Computational Tool for Optimising Coronary Stent Design and Placement Under Cardiac Motion

Apply and key information

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)
Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Summary

Heart arteries move, twist, and bend constantly as the heart beats. This motion affects how blood flows through the vessels and how diseases like heart blockages or artery wall damage develop.

However, most current computer models used to study blood flow treat arteries as if they are rigid and motionless, which makes them less accurate.

This project aims to create a new, realistic computer model that shows how blood flows and how artery walls stretch and move in rhythm with the heartbeat to design and optimise new generation 3D printable coronary stents.

Using detailed heart scans from real patients, 3D digital models of the arteries will be built to simulate the effects of heart motion, blood pressure, and vessel flexibility.

These simulations will help researchers understand how constant movement and pressure changes can lead to heart disease, stent fatigue, or stent failure.

The project will also use 3D printing to design and manufacture custom-made stents that fit a patient’s unique artery shape.

These stents will be made from an advanced, body-safe material called PEEK, which is lightweight, strong, and suitable for medical use. Once produced, the stents will be tested for their integrity.

By combining medical imaging, advanced computer modelling, and modern manufacturing, this research will help doctors predict and prevent heart problems more accurately.

In the long term, it could lead to faster, more effective treatments, fewer repeat surgeries, and improved patient outcomes, ultimately reducing hospital waiting times and healthcare costs.

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:

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