Towards a clinical MEG system: theoretical and practical insights into the use of optically pumped magnetometers

About the Project

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that allows characterisation of human brain electrophysiology by measuring magnetic fields generated by neural currents. Since its invention, MEG has shown its value for understanding brain function in health and disease, providing unique insights into neurophysiological processes.

One of the major limitations of MEG is the requirement of a very expensive and bulky system that has constrained its use to research-only environments. In 2018, researchers from the UK presented a revolutionary technology to tackle these limitations, making wearable MEG sensors a reality. These sensors, labelled Optically Pumped Magnetometers (OPMs), rely on a radically different principle for measuring magnetic fields without the need of a cryogenic-cooling system. Additionally, OPMs can be placed directly on the scalp, enhancing the signal-to-noise-ratio by 5-10 times. This breakthrough in the field has generated great expectations to move MEG to the clinical practice. However, there are plenty technical challenges that need immediate attention, including sensor characterisation, study of the compatibility with other electrophysiological modalities [as electroencephalography (EEG)], and the analysis of noise properties.

In this project, the student will investigate the use of OPMs for measuring magnetic brain signals. The research plan has four stages to be completed in 3.5 years:

1. Literature search, training in electromagnetic brain signals, standard MEG acquisition, and use of OPMs (yr 0.0-0.8).
2. Comparison between OPMs and standard (SQUID) sensors (yr 0.8-1.3).
3. Design of optimal sensor positioning standards and analysis of compatibility with EEG (yr 1.3-2.5).
4. Practical demonstrations, reporting, and viva (yr 2.5-3.5).

Those with an existing background in neurophysiology and MEG will be able to move into stage 2 sooner. The student will have access to the MEG suite in CUBRIC, as well as state-of-the-art OPMs recently acquired by the supervisory team (funded by EPSRC).

Training opportunities will include the invited seminar series in the School of Physics and Astronomy (PHYSX) and CUBRIC, research and practical experience with experts in neuroimaging and numerical analysis, and the presentation of results at national and international conferences (e.g. MEGUK and Biomag).

The PhD project will take place in CUBRIC, a pioneer in brain imaging research. This is a rare opportunity to join a successful neuroimaging centre in a phase of strong growth and to work in a vibrant and positive research environment. The student will also be part of the Brain Imaging Group, one of the six research groups in PHYSX.

For more information, or if there are any questions, please contact Dr Leandro Beltrachini BeltrachiniL@cardiff.ac.uk

The typical academic requirement is a minimum of a 2:1 physics and astronomy or a relevant discipline.

Applicants whose first language is not English are normally expected to meet the minimum University requirements (e.g. IELTS 6.5 Overall with 5.5 minimum in sub-scores).

How to apply

Applicants should apply to the Doctor of Philosophy in Physics and Astronomy.

Applicants should submit an application for postgraduate study via the Cardiff University webpages including:

• your academic CV
• Your degree certificates and transcripts to date including certified translations if these are not in English
• a personal statement/covering letter
• two references, at least one of which should be academic. Your references can be emailed by the referee to physics-admissions@cardiff.ac.uk

Please note: We are do not contact referees directly for references for each applicant due to the volume of applications we receive.

In the "Research Proposal" section of your application, please specify the project title and supervisors of this project.

In the funding section, please select that you will be self-funded or include your own sponsorship or scholarship details.

Once your application is submitted, we will review it and advise you within a few weeks if you have been shortlisted for an interview.

Funding Notes

This project is offered for self-funded students only, or those with their own sponsorship or scholarship award.