Multiscale computational modelling of normal and cancer cell biomechanics and behaviour
We have one vacancy for a bright, enthusiastic, self motivated PhD student to join the INSIGNEO Institute for in silico Medicine at the University of Sheffield.
Computational modelling at the cellular scale is a field of expanding interest. However, integration between behavioural and mechanical models has to date been limited. We have separately developed a very detailed finite element model of the mechanics of a single cell, and an agent-based model (ABM) focussing on cell behaviour, that ignores the role of structural components. Combining these models using a multiscale approach will allow us to explore the role of cellular mechanics in clinically important scenarios – most notably in the process of metastasis, and ultimately, to explore potential treatments.
The primary objective of this joint computational modelling and laboratory based project is to develop a multiscale model of cellular biomechanics bridging biological scales from the subcellular to the multicellular/tissue level. This model will allow us to simulate aspects of normal and cancer cell biomechanics from the cytoskeletal to the multicellular level, and these predictions will be validated against in vitro experiments.
This studentship will be jointly supervised by Professor Damien Lacroix (Department of Mechanical Engineering) and Dr Dawn Walker (Department of Computer Science). Both supervisors are members of the INSIGNEO Institute for in silico Medicine - an initiative between the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Sheffield and the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust. INSIGNEO intends to realise the scientific ambition behind the Virtual Physiological Human, producing a transformational impact on healthcare. INSIGNEO performs cutting edge research in areas of fundamental and applied biomedical modelling, imaging and informatics. In particular, over next five years it will focus on the Digital Patient, In Silico Clinical Trials, and Personal Health Forecasting. We intend to achieve transformational impact on healthcare through multidisciplinary collaboration in strategic areas, which initially will include personalised treatments and independent, active and healthy ageing. Our team of academics has an international and interdisciplinary profile and a strong commitment to clinical and industrial translation with impact in future healthcare. For more information on INSIGNEO please see our web pages: http://www.insigneo.org/.
The successful candidate should have or be expected to obtain a 1st class or a good 2.1 degree in mechanical engineering, bioengineering, physics, applied mathematics or computer science, and should be enthusiastic about fundamental research. Previous knowledge on numerical methods such as finite element analysis and programming skills are essential.
This studentship funded by the University of Sheffield is available immediately. A tax-free stipend at £15,000 per annum is available for three years, plus tuition fees at the UK/EU rate.
For an informal discussion on the project please email Prof. Damien Lacroix: D.Lacroix@sheffield.ac.uk or Dr. Dawn Walker d.c.walker@sheffield.ac.uk
To apply, please use our standard on-line PhD application form together with your CV and two references, and indicate on your form that you are replying to this advert.
Deadline: 15 September 2013
We have one vacancy for a bright, enthusiastic, self motivated PhD student to join the INSIGNEO Institute for in silico Medicine at the University of Sheffield.
Computational modelling at the cellular scale is a field of expanding interest. However, integration between behavioural and mechanical models has to date been limited. We have separately developed a very detailed finite element model of the mechanics of a single cell, and an agent-based model (ABM) focussing on cell behaviour, that ignores the role of structural components. Combining these models using a multiscale approach will allow us to explore the role of cellular mechanics in clinically important scenarios – most notably in the process of metastasis, and ultimately, to explore potential treatments.
The primary objective of this joint computational modelling and laboratory based project is to develop a multiscale model of cellular biomechanics bridging biological scales from the subcellular to the multicellular/tissue level. This model will allow us to simulate aspects of normal and cancer cell biomechanics from the cytoskeletal to the multicellular level, and these predictions will be validated against in vitro experiments.
This studentship will be jointly supervised by Professor Damien Lacroix (Department of Mechanical Engineering) and Dr Dawn Walker (Department of Computer Science). Both supervisors are members of the INSIGNEO Institute for in silico Medicine - an initiative between the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Sheffield and the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust. INSIGNEO intends to realise the scientific ambition behind the Virtual Physiological Human, producing a transformational impact on healthcare. INSIGNEO performs cutting edge research in areas of fundamental and applied biomedical modelling, imaging and informatics. In particular, over next five years it will focus on the Digital Patient, In Silico Clinical Trials, and Personal Health Forecasting. We intend to achieve transformational impact on healthcare through multidisciplinary collaboration in strategic areas, which initially will include personalised treatments and independent, active and healthy ageing. Our team of academics has an international and interdisciplinary profile and a strong commitment to clinical and industrial translation with impact in future healthcare. For more information on INSIGNEO please see our web pages: http://www.insigneo.org/.
The successful candidate should have or be expected to obtain a 1st class or a good 2.1 degree in mechanical engineering, bioengineering, physics, applied mathematics or computer science, and should be enthusiastic about fundamental research. Previous knowledge on numerical methods such as finite element analysis and programming skills are essential.
This studentship funded by the University of Sheffield is available immediately. A tax-free stipend at £15,000 per annum is available for three years, plus tuition fees at the UK/EU rate.
For an informal discussion on the project please email Prof. Damien Lacroix: D.Lacroix@sheffield.ac.uk or Dr. Dawn Walker d.c.walker@sheffield.ac.uk
To apply, please use our standard on-line PhD application form together with your CV and two references, and indicate on your form that you are replying to this advert.
Deadline: 15 September 2013