This is a four year collaborative studentship which requires the candidate to spend two full years based at Coventry University (UK) and two years based at A*STAR Research Institute (Singapore). The usual pattern is first and fourth years at Coventry and second and third year at A*STAR Research Institute.

The coronary artery disease (CAD) and coronary microvascular disease (CMVD) are two major mechanisms of myocardial ischemia. Currently, the accurate diagnosis of CMVD depends on invasive measurement. Early detection and efficient treatment of CMVD are still challenging.

Project details

To meet the clinical need, patient-specific dynamic computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation has been developed for hemodynamic evaluation of CAD and CMVD. On the other hand, nanomedicines based on different nanoparticles have been developed for the detection and treatment of CAD and CMVD, where the personalized optimization of the treatment plan deserves further investigation.

In this PhD project, we aim to develop a novel computational method to achieve non-invasive, personalized optimization of nanomedicine for CMVD. Multimodal hemodynamic parameters will be derived from CFD simulation of the coronary circulation based on patient-specific radiological imaging data and physiological parameters. A multiphysics simulation model will be developed to investigate the features of nanomedicine distribution on microvascular level. Finally, the model will be validated on new clinical datasets to achieve reliable evaluation on the treatment efficacy of nanomedicine in patients with different severities of CAD and CMVD.

We are looking for highly motivated candidates who have a strong interest in developing innovative healthcare technologies and has a broad understanding of cardiac physiology. The PhD project requires working with clinicians and computer scientists at different stages along the development pathway – and will lead to high-quality publications. It will involve clinical data analysis, and a variety of computing work (including computational modelling, nanotechnology, and cardiology).

Funding

Coventry University and A*STAR jointly offer a fully-funded PhD studentship including tuition fees and stipend/bursary, that is open to both UK/EU and international graduates as part of the A*STAR Research Attachment Programme (ARAP).

Coventry University and A*STAR will only cover the stipend up to a maximum of two years each. Changes to the mobility pattern will only be considered under exceptional circumstances and can impact on the duration of the course and level of funding available. Should a candidate request any changes to mobility which results in the period spent in either the UK or Singapore extending beyond two years then the candidate is responsible for covering the stipend for that period.

Benefits

The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills.

All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.

Entry requirements

A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.

PLUS

The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a 3.5 years.
A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS academic overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).

How to apply

To find out more about the project, please contact Haipeng Liu.

All applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, plus a 2000-word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.

Apply to Coventry University