Novel subsurface Raman microscopy technologies to enable the development of next-generation drug and implant therapies at University of Nottingham

Supervisors:

Prof Ioan Notingher (School of Physics and Astronomy)

Dr Chris Mellor (School of Physics and Astronomy)

Prof Amir Ghaemmaghami (School of Life Sciences)

Prof Morgan Alexander (School of Pharmacy)

Positions available: 1

Funding: fully-funded (stipend and PhD fees)

Start date: September 2024

Duration: 3.5 years

Subject Area: Biophotonics/Optics

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful label-free analytical technique that measures the molecular composition of tissue by using light to excite molecular vibrations in the sample and generate Raman scattered photons. However, because of high light scattering by biological tissue, conventional Raman spectroscopy techniques cannot prob deeper into tissue under the skin. Therefore, non-invasive in-vivo measurements are limited to the skin.

The aim of this PhD project is to develop new Raman spectroscopy strategies for measurements deep in tissue. While such measurements could be used for a broad range of biomedical applications, the focus of this project is on understanding the foreign body response to various biomaterials. Understanding the time-and spatial-dependent molecular processes underpinning foreign body response is important for a broad range of applications, from the development of new drugs to implantable medical devices.

In this project, the student will develop various approaches to allow deep Raman spectroscopy. These approaches will rely on computer modelling of light propagation in tissue (finite element analysis) to understand how to deliver and collect efficiently light from the desired region of interest into tissue. This information will then be used to design and build optimised instruments, which will then be used to carry out experiments. The project will explore the use of spatial light modulators and implantable wireless optoelectronic components to maximise the penetration depth, spatial resolution and sensitivity to the required molecular markers. The new technologies will push the boundary towards “in-vivo laboratory”, with a long-term vision to of understanding human physiology in health and disease, enabling the development of novel biomaterials and improved treatments.   

This project is based on a long-term research collaboration between the Biophotonics Group (School of Physics and Astronomy), School of Life Sciences and School of Pharmacy, currently funded by the National Centre for Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs https://www.nc3rs.org.uk ). Thus, this project is an excellent opportunity for inter-disciplinary training. Funding includes stipend, tuition fees, research consumables and travel to international conferences.

The candidates should have a 1st degree in physics, chemistry, or engineering. They should have evidence of strong background in optics, experience in computer programming, electronics skills, and be willing to learn/conduct cell and tissue-based experiments.

For further information about the projects please contact Ioan Notingher (ioan.notingher@nottingham.ac.uk).