PhD Studentship: Brain Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE) in Preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease

This project aims to revolutionize our understanding of brain health through innovative and sensitive imaging and postprocessing techniques.

It is anticipated that the PhD will combine this cutting-edge technology with other microstructural imaging methods. There will be ample scope for you to develop novel hypotheses to deepen understanding of neurological changes that occur in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Key tasks:

• Assist with the acquisition of MRI and cognitive data and perform blood collection (phlebotomy training provided).
• Employ advanced postprocessing algorithms to extract quantitative measures from acquired MRI data.
• Apply advanced statistical methods on the acquired data.
• Investigate correlations between multiple imaging markers.
• Assist with participant recruitment and data management.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to enhance the translation of research findings.
• Report the results in the form of scientific manuscripts and conference presentations.

You will work under the lead supervision of Dr. Lucy Hiscox (CUBRIC, Cardiff University) but is an exciting opportunity to also work with a co-supervisory team that are multidisciplinary experts in physics and medical imaging (Dr. Daniel Gallichan, School of Engineering, Cardiff University) and dementia epidemiology (Associate Professor Emma Anderson, Division of Psychiatry, UCL).

You will gain expertise in experimental design, MR imaging protocols, sophisticated MR image analysis tools, and innovative statistical methods. You will engage in weekly meetings to collaboratively develop research concepts, discuss AREA commitments for responsible research, and personal development needs. There are opportunities for on-site visits to collaborators within the UK and US to enhance your skill set through hands-on experience and knowledge exchange.

We encourage applications from individuals from under-represented groups.

Home students are UK Nationals and EU students who can satisfy UK residency requirements (students must have been in the UK for >3 years before start of course). As only a limited number of studentships are available across the Open School competition and a very high standard of applications is typically received, the successful applicants are likely to have a very good first degree (a First or Upper Second class BSc Honours or equivalent) and/or be distinguished by having relevant research experience.

Studentships are awarded on a competitive basis in competition with other projects in the Open School competition. The studentship commences in October 2024, covers 3 years tuition fees and maintenance, with submission deadline of 4 years. The 2023/4 full-time maintenance grant was £18,662 p.a. Psychology students receive conference and participant money (~£2,250), computer, office space, access to courses and become members of the Doctoral Academy. Please select most appropriate advert for your Research and specify that you’re applying for this project and supervisor. 

For any queries about this studentship, please contact the supervisor by email - Lucy Hiscox [email protected] .