This PhD project, based in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Glasgow, focuses on developing computational and theoretical methods to extract clean, quantitative measurements from challenging microscopy images. Optical physics has enabled significant advances in biological imaging, but the full potential of these techniques is often limited by noisy, incomplete, or artefact-laden data. The project aims to overcome these barriers by leveraging advanced computational approaches such as maximum likelihood estimation, deconvolution, and particle image velocimetry to recover high-quality images and accurate blood flow maps from minimal raw data.

Students will explore both practical and theoretical aspects, including how to obtain detailed 3D blood flow maps with limited data and fundamental questions about the information content in noisy images. Techniques like decomposing flow fields into basis sets and using the Cramer-Rao Lower Bound for sensitivity estimation will be central. The research is primarily computational and theoretical but is closely linked to experimental work and motivated by the goal of improving imaging techniques for biomedical applications.

The successful candidate will join the Imaging Concepts Group, a vibrant team of about 20 researchers engaged in cutting-edge research in advanced imaging techniques and their applications in medicine and industry. The group collaborates with academic and industrial partners in the UK and internationally, with ongoing projects in adaptive and compressive imaging, real-time image analysis, and hyperspectral imaging. The group is committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Applicants should have a strong background in physics or a related physical science, with excellent analytical and computational skills. Experience in computer programming (preferably Python) is essential, along with an enthusiasm for innovation and interdisciplinary research. The position is fully funded for UK-resident applicants, with additional scholarships for underrepresented groups and competitive funding for outstanding international candidates. The start date is October 2026, and the application deadline is January 26, 2026.

For more information about the research group, visit Prof Taylor's research page and the Imaging Concepts Group. Interested applicants should send a CV and covering letter to Prof Jonathan Taylor at [email protected], outlining their interest in the project and relevant qualifications.