Jonathan Taylor

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.

This PhD project at the University of Glasgow focuses on developing high-speed fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) for microfluidic cell sorting, with the aim of distinguishing between different types of immune cells in the context of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. FLIM is a powerful imaging technique capable of differentiating between 'problematic' and 'helpful' immune cells, which could enable more targeted treatments for these conditions. However, current FLIM methods are too slow for high-throughput applications. This project will leverage new SPAD array camera technology and advanced computer algorithms to enable rapid imaging of blood cells flowing through microfluidic systems, potentially revolutionizing flow cytometry and cell sorting in biomedical research and clinical diagnostics. The successful candidate will join the School of Physics and Astronomy, working under the supervision of Professor Jonathan Taylor in a diverse and supportive research group. The project offers the opportunity to develop advanced skills in optical microscopy, custom-built optical systems, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Imaging Concepts Group, comprising around 20 researchers, is engaged in cutting-edge research in advanced imaging techniques with applications in both commercial and biomedical fields. Ongoing research includes real-time image analysis, adaptive and compressive imaging, and hyperspectral imaging for medical and industrial uses. The group collaborates with academic and industrial partners in the UK and internationally. Applicants should have a strong background in experimental physics, with practical skills and an enthusiasm for real-world applications. Experience in optics is desirable but not essential, and strong programming skills (preferably in Python) are required. Candidates should hold or expect to obtain a 1st or 2.i class degree in Physics or a related physical science, or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution. The position is fully funded for UK-resident applicants, with additional scholarships available for underrepresented groups and competitive funding for outstanding international candidates. The application deadline is January 26, 2026, with an October start date. Interested applicants should send a CV and covering letter to Professor Jonathan Taylor, outlining their interest in the project and relevant experience. For more information about the research group and ongoing projects, visit the provided academic web pages.