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Postgraduate research project

Transforming respiratory care at the bedside using machine learning assisted on-chip vibrational spectroscopy

Funding
Competition funded View fees and funding
Type of degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Entry requirements
2:1 View full entry requirements
Faculty graduate school
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Closing date
About the project Potential supervisors Entry requirements Fees and funding How to apply Contact us
About the project Potential supervisors Entry requirements Fees and funding How to apply Contact us

About the project

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a widespread respiratory condition affecting all ages, causes respiratory failure due to inflamed, fluid-filled lungs hindering gas exchange. COVID-19 highlighted ARDS globally, leading to hospitalizations and deaths. 

 

No specific therapy exists, and surfactant loss worsens outcomes, with 30-50% mortality. Oxygen therapy is crucial but excessive administration can damage tissues. Our study proposes on-chip spectroscopy for rapid in-vivo surfactant analysis, aiding precise treatments and prevention across all ages.

This PhD project is focused on transforming respiratory care at the bedside to develop a user-friendly, palmtop spectrometer that brings rapid bedside biomarker diagnosis within easy reach for clinicians. Building on our success in mid-infrared spectroscopy and machine learning, our team is creating a practical point-of-care device.

Utilizing disposable enhanced spectroscopic chips, this project aims to analyse in-vivo surfactant metabolism swiftly. By doing so, clinicians can make informed decisions, stratify patients, and prescribe targeted therapies promptly.