PhD projects in Biomedical Optical Imaging

The Optical+Biomedical Engineering Laboratory (OBEL) has a rich tradition in the development and application of biomedical imaging systems. Based at the University of Western Australia in Perth, Western Australia, we have made significant contributions to the development of optical coherence tomography and to its clinical application. One of our recent research successes is the so-called “microscope in a needle”, which permits optical coherence tomography images to be acquired via a needle inserted into biological tissue.

We are currently initiating a new program of research in the area of fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) for pre-clinical imaging. FMT is being adopted a rapid rate by biomedical scientists and is already commercially available. The technique provides a means of imaging the bio-distribution of fluorescent markers which can be designed to target tissue exhibiting certain molecular or functional signatures. The main limitations of this technology are: poor spatial resolution owing to the diffuse nature of light propagation in tissue and noise due to tissue auto-fluorescence. We are seeking PhD students to work on both theoretical and experimental aspects of this project. In particular, we intend to employ rigorous modelling techniques, developed within the group, to test different techniques for improving the signal to noise ratio in acquired fluorescence images. Parallel to this we plan to build a research oriented fluorescence molecular tomography to experimentally test the developed techniques. We also intend to investigate ways of combining FMT with other imaging techniques to form hybrid imaging systems.

We have a number of other possible projects so please have a look at our web page for other opportunities: http://obel.ee.uwa.edu.au/

Students should have a first degree in a related field (physics, electrical engineering, mathematics, etc) with at minimum an upper second class honours degree.

Applicants will be required to apply for scholarship from the University (http://www.scholarships.uwa.edu.au/future-students/postgrad/international) which close on August 30, 2013. However, should you wish to apply for a scholarship to undertake a PhD within OBEL you must contact us first. Thus please contact Dr Peter Munro (peter.munro@uwa.edu.au via the Apply button below) as soon as possible to discuss making an application. Please include a copy of your CV and academic transcripts.