Ultrasensitive PET imaging of calcification to improve the outcome of intravascular lithotripsy in peripheral artery disease

About the Project

The development of peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a complex process that leads to functional impairment and amputation. The presence of medial artery calcification (MAC) predicts amputation and poor outcomes and is a major impediment to surgical remission of occlusive disease. Lithotripsy is used to break up calcification however how this treatment contributes to the high incidence of subsequent restenosis is unclear. This four-year project will combine the clinical expertise of Patel in vascular surgery and precision medicine with novel PET imaging science of T. M. de Rosales with the basic science expertise of Shanahan to understand the pathogenesis of vascular occlusion in PAD and develop new imaging-based methods to identify and risk stratify patients with restenosis.

This studentship is part of PSI CDT’s Smart Instruments & Active Implants Research Theme. The successful applicant will join Cohort 3.

Project Title

Ultrasensitive PET imaging of calcification to improve the outcome of intravascular lithotripsy in peripheral artery disease

Supervisors

Dr Rafael Torres Martin De Rosales and Prof Cathy Shanahan

Department / School

Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, PSI CDT

Collaborative Industry Partner

NA

Eligibility

• We encourage applications from candidates with a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related programme.
• Preference will be given to candidates with a background conducive to multidisciplinary research.
• Due to funding restrictions, this studentship is only open to students who qualify for Home fee status in the UK.

Funding Details

• 4-year studentship starting October 2026
• Funding covers an annual tax-free living allowance of £25,805 (AY 2026-27) paid monthly, a Research Training Support Grant of £20,000 (£5k per year) for consumables and conference travel, and tuition fees