SAE-19 PhD in Micro-cameras for Surgical Guidance 

Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

Summary of project

Micro-camera technologies in robotic and laparoscopic surgical intervention can provide optical signature of interest to the surgeon, improving the guidance, potentially increasing the clinical success and training of new instrument specialist users. The applications of image sensors will also permit more sophisticated visualisation, through narrow band, multispectral or fluorescence capabilities with or without 3D visualisation.

The Project focuses towards exploring the immediate clinical applications for the developed image sensor in endoscopy and when employing catheters. In particular, we aim to explore the techniques in connection to cardiology interventions, laryngoscopy and ductoscopy in connection to breast tumour resections. It will examine the need to add the fluorescence functionality for improved sensitivity/specificity in the tissue identification. The most important guidance can be to avoid cutting nerves or small blood vessels. Visualisation of such sub surface tissue structures will be explored through micro-camera technologies integrated in the scopes/arms. It will further investigate the optimal operation scheme for providing the best information possible for guiding the surgeon. Both ex vivo and in vivo measurements are planned. 

The work will be carried out at Biophotonics@Tyndall group, the student will work in close collaboration with cohort of PhD students (11), post docs (5), PIs (9) in biomedical theme. Biophotonics@Tyndall is a newly established collaborative research programme based at the Tyndall National Institute led by Professor Stefan Andersson-Engels. The Group’s focus will be to form close collaborations with clinicians, research centres and companies to accelerate biophotonics technology and rapidly deliver breakthrough technologies into the hands of health-care providers. Using photonics as a driver for the faster development and deployment of more accurate, less invasive diagnostic and treatment methods for cancer and other diseases.

Key Responsibilities 

• Carry out innovative research in Microcameras with focus of its application to surgical guidance.
• Perform modelling and analysis of photon migration in tissue.
• Participate on research projects under the direction of supervisors related to microcameras and applications.
• With guidance, implement the novel solutions in lab, carry out various characterisation and validation of device. 
• Work on collaborative research projects with industry partners. 
• Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research, as directed by and with the support of supervisors.
• Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
• Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system and required Health & Safety standards.
• • Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the PhD.

Essential Criteria

• The ideal applicants will have a 1st Class Honours degree or an MSc in Physics, Engineering or a related discipline.
• Knowledge of building and handling optics system, programming skills would be advantageous, but is not essential.

An annual student stipend of €18,500 applies for the successful candidate for this position. Yearly University Academic Fees will be paid by the Tyndall National Institute.

Application Instructions

Step 1 - Click here to download and complete the Application form and indicate the Job Reference SAE-19

Step 2 – Return the completed Application form, together with your CV and motivation letter to careers@tyndall.ie.

Postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency (https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/postgraduate/) as per UCC regulations. Certificates should be valid (usually less than 2 years old) and should be uploaded with their application. In special circumstances the panel may consider a prior degree in English (e.g. Master thesis written in English) as evidence of English language proficiency.

Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.

Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.

Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.