About the Project
The retina is essential for vision and is affected by many sight-threatening diseases. Detecting retinal changes at the earliest possible stage is critical for improving diagnosis, monitoring disease progression and evaluating new treatments. Although Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has revolutionised retinal imaging by providing detailed three-dimensional images, current clinical systems cannot routinely resolve individual retinal cells because of optical imperfections within the eye.
This project aims to overcome this limitation using adaptive optics, a technology originally developed for astronomy that corrects optical distortions in real time. When combined with OCT, adaptive optics enables retinal imaging at cellular resolution, providing an unprecedented view of retinal structure.
The overall aim is to develop a new method for measuring visual function and relating it directly to cellular-resolution images of the retina in age related macular degeneration. Conventional visual acuity tests are limited because the eye’s optics blur the targets being viewed. To address this, the project will develop a novel visual acuity test that projects high-resolution targets directly onto the retina through an adaptive optics system, minimising the effects of optical blur.
The project has three objectives: (1) acquire cellular-resolution retinal images using a state-of-the-art adaptive optics OCT system; (2) develop a retinal projection system using an acousto-optic modulator to generate visual targets; and (3) create and optimise psychophysical testing methods that provide sensitive and efficient measurements of visual acuity. Machine learning will be used to analyse the retinal images and optimise the algorithms and stimulus parameters to improve test speed and sensitivity.
By linking microscopic retinal structure with visual performance, the project will improve understanding of how cellular retinal changes affect vision and could support earlier detection and monitoring of retinal disease.
Entry Requirements
You must hold, or be about to obtain, a minimum Upper Second Class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualification gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline. A related master’s degree would be an advantage. Research experience in optical instrumentation is desirable.
International applicants (including EU nationals) should ensure that they meet the academic eligibility criteria for the programme. Applicants who are offered a place will also need to meet the University's English language requirements before commencing their studies. Further information can be found on the University's English Language Requirements page.
Application Guidance
Candidates must contact the primary supervisor before applying to discuss their interest in the project and assess their suitability.
Apply directly via this link: https://tinyurl.com/mt2xfsvp or on the online application portal, select EPSRC DTP PhD as the programme of study.
You may apply for up to two projects within this scheme. If you wish to apply for two projects, you must submit a separate online application for each project, listing the relevant project title and main supervisor in each application.
Please ensure that your application includes all required supporting documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supporting Statement
- Academic Certificates and Transcripts
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Further details are available on our website: EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership | Biology, Medicine and Health | The University of Manchester
Equality, diversity and inclusion are central to the University’s activities. The full statement can be found here: https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/getting-
Funding Notes
The EPSRC studentships provide full funding for tuition fees and a stipend at the Research Councils UK (UKRI) rate for 3.5 years starting in September 2027. Please note, candidates will need to cover the cost of relocation and any associated costs (e.g. visa, health surcharges).
