3D imaging methods in full field optical coherence tomography
School of Engineering
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has become well established in recent years as a volume imaging technique, enabling real-time imaging of structures within the surface layers of biological tissue or engineering materials. The resolution obtained is much higher than that seen using ultrasound or x-ray, enabling OCT to be used for detecting small tissue changes indicating, for example, pre-cancerous medical conditions. The current push worldwide to explore and extend the capabilities of OCT, for both medical and non-medical applications, makes this a lively and fast-moving research field.
The Engineering Photonics group at Cranfield has recently been awarded an EPSRC grant to investigate the use of optical fibre imaging bundles for 3D imaging in optical coherence tomography, and PhD studentships in OCT are currently available. Projects will involve investigation of optical and image-processing schemes for full-field OCT systems, and testing on a range of samples in collaboration with other groups both within and outside Cranfield.
The Cranfield group is extremely active, with interests in numerous other areas of optical sensing, including fibre Bragg gratings, flow measurement and speckle methods, and has an international reputation in optical sensors and optical instrumentation. It occupies a suite of modern, purpose-built laboratories. State-of-the-art equipment will be made available for the OCT projects, including a high-speed swept-source laser, high-power broadband sources and array detectors for various wavelengths.
The Engineering Photonics Group provides:
- A purpose built suite of first class laboratories
- Close links with industry and researchers from other disciplines
- Opportunities for publication and overseas travel to international conferences
- A vibrant and dynamic working environment
The studentship attracts a tax free stipend of £12,600 pa, and tuition fees are paid.
Candidates should have a good first degree in physics or engineering, and / or an MSc in a relevant subject.
Project Supervisor: Professor Ralph Tatam
Application Deadline: 23 May 2008
Start date: flexible, from June 2008 onwards
Enquiries to Ralph Tatam Engineering Photonics Group, r.p.tatam@cranfield.ac.uk
phone 01234 754630
or visit the group website at http://www.cranfield.ac.uk/soe/cpoe/ for an application form
