EngD Studentship with Optos PLC — a Nikon Company
Together with Optos PLC, we want to develop an innovative retinal imaging modality to detect eye diseases like glaucoma in time for effective treatment. Within the framework of the Centre for Doctoral Training in Applied Photonics, we offer an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) Studentship, aimed at research students that want a career in industry. Students spend about 75% of their time working directly with the company in addition to receiving advanced-level training from a broad portfolio of technical and business courses. On completion students are awarded the PhD-equivalent EngD.
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, characterized by the progressive degeneration of retinal neurons. Early detection is crucial for effective management and treatment, as it can significantly slow the progression of vision loss. The proposed research aims to extend the capabilities of opto-retinography (ORG) beyond the current state-of-the-art focus on photoreceptor layers, targeting the neuron layer to improve early diagnosis of retinal diseases, with a primary emphasis on glaucoma.
The research will explore the capability to detect biological nanoscale changes due to retinal neural function, advancing our understanding and diagnostic capabilities in the realm of retinal disease. Optical Coherent Tomography (OCT) serves as a foundational technology for this project. The primary objective is to develop advanced computational methods and stimulus designs to enhance the detection and analysis of retinal neural activity. To achieve this, the research will apply numerical adaptive optics techniques to maximize signal strength and resolution in the targeted retinal layers. A critical component of the methodology involves the design and optimization of spatio-temporal stimulation patterns using a visible light Digital Micro-mirror Device (DMD). These visual patterns will be crafted to achieve maximum excitation of the targeted retinal layers, enabling detection of the associated neural activity.
The anticipated outcome of this research is the development of improved ORG techniques that can be applied clinically for the early detection and diagnosis of glaucoma and other retinal diseases, potentially leading to better patient outcomes through earlier and more accurate intervention.
Essential criteria
The successful candidate should:
- hold, or be close to completing, a degree in science, engineering, or related discipline
- be excited about developing the skills to design and build optical experiments
- be capable of analysing and interpreting experimental data
- enjoy working independently on a unique and challenging problem, as well as within a multidisciplinary research team
- have good communication skills, both verbally and written
Desirable criteria
The ideal candidate would also have:
- a solid programming skills for analysing data or simulating future experiments
- demonstrable prior experience with optical experiments
Working Environment
The successful EngD candidate will be based at the premises of Optos PLC in Dunfermline, and conduct research within the research and development department. The project will be supported academically through the University of Dundee. While a student is not expected to spend extended periods of time at the University, some specific experiments may have to be conducted at the physics department in the School of Science and Engineering. Optos is the leading company in ophthalmic imaging, thus facilitating a rapid transition from research to commercial product.
Applications
Are you as excited as us by this project? Please submit your application through the Centre for Doctoral Training. Please get in touch and let us how your experience and skills can make a difference.
The proposed projects can be carried out with a certain degree of flexibility as long as a proper level of commitment and professionalism is provided by the candidate. Specific work arrangements can be discussed with potential candidates in order to meet specific personal needs.
The University of Dundee has been awarded HR Excellence in Research and received an Athena SWAN award, reflecting its commitment to equal opportunities, family friendly policies, and creating an inclusive working environment.