Optical and magnetic resonance imaging using upconversion nanoparticles

The project will involve the synthesis of advanced upconversion nanoparticles and their characterisation aimed at assessing their suitability as dual-mode (optical and MRI) imaging materials for cancer tissues. Upconversion nanoparticles are inorganic nanoparticles that are capable of emitting visible light under near-infrared laser excitation allowing us to image deeper into the tissues with less interference compared to other light-based imaging techniques.

<p style="margin-bottom:11px">The synthesis of upconversion nanoparticle (UCNP) based systems and their surface functionalisation with selected Affimers/antibodies for dual-mode imaging applicable to cancer tissues is the overall objective of this project. In this project we propose to develop different types of UCNPs doped with different rare earth ion sensitizer and activator combinations (Yb3+, Er3+, Tm3+ and Ho3+) will be developed. The factors such as type of precursors, surfactants other preparative conditions are varied to obtain particles having different shapes, phase and high photoluminescence intensity. Surface modification with various polymers and other suitable methods (such as coating with silica) followed by conjugation of Affimers will allow targeted imaging. Development of particle systems which suits dual modal imaging (Optical/magnetic) applications seek importance. The cytotoxicity analysis of particles of interest will be carried out using MTT assay, NRU assay or comet assay, which could be assessed before preclinical trials.</p> <p>Advanced structural characterisation of the UCNP systems using electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and laser spectroscopy will be undertaken prior to their use in imaging experiments. The imaging experiments will be carried out in collaboration with Leeds Teaching Hospitals and the  School of Medicine and Health. In the dual model imaging, the student has to develop the functionally modified particle with optically and magnetically active centres in order to acquire optical and MRI image. </p>

<p>To apply for this project you will need to make a formal application for research degree study through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University website</a>. You will need to create a login ID with a username and PIN. </p> <p>•    For <strong>Application type</strong> please select <strong>Research Degrees – Research Postgraduate</strong>. <br /> •    The admission year for this project is <strong>2027/28</strong> Academic Year. <br /> •    You will need to select your <strong>Planned Course of Study</strong> from a drop-down menu. For this project, scroll down and select <strong>PHP Chemical & Process Engineering Full Time.</strong> <br /> •    The project start date for this project is <strong>1 October 2027</strong>, please use this as your <strong>Proposed Start Date of Research</strong>. <br /> •    Please state clearly in the<strong> Research Information Section</strong> that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <strong>Optical and magnetic resonance imaging using upconversion nanoparticles</strong> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemical-engineering/staff/413/professor-gin-jose">Professor Gin Jose</a> as your proposed supervisor.</p> <p><strong>Please state clearly in the Finance section</strong>, <strong>the funding that you are applying for, if you are self-funding or externally sponsored</strong>.</p> <p>More information on how to apply is available on our website <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">here</a>. You will be required to provide a personal statement which outlines your interest in the project you are applying for, why you have chosen it and how your skills map onto the requirements of the project.</p> <p>We will assess applications continuously as we receive them. We welcome and strongly encourage any potential applicants to contact the supervisor(s) for an informal discussion, prior to applying, and recommend submitting your application early.</p> <p><strong>If you are applying with external sponsorship or you are funding your own study, please ensure you provide your supporting documents at the point you submit your application:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date including the grading scheme</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p>This is a non funded PhD project. Applicants are expected to be self funded or to secure external funding.</p> <p>You can find out more about our Funding Opportunities on our <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/">Postgraduate Research Opportunities</a> website.</p> <p><strong>Important: </strong>Please note that all costs associated with your arrival at Leeds (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Professor Gin Jose by email to <a href="mailto:G.Jose@leeds.ac.uk">g.jose@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, including how to apply, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:epspgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk">epspgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>