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FUNDED MASTER’S BY RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY - MANCHESTER METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY (MANCHESTER, UK)
Project title: A pilot study to examine the utility of 3D gait analysis in addition to clinical assessments in patients investigated for iNPH pre- and post- lumbar puncture
Summary
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Department of Sport & Exercise Sciences at Manchester Metropolitan University (Manchester, UK) to study for a funded Master’s by Research in biomechanics on a research project funded by the Hydrocephalus Association. This applied biomechanics research project aims to establish the effects of cerebrospinal fluid tap-test on gait and balance in adults with idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH). The project is a collaboration between Manchester Metropolitan University, the University of Gothenburg, and the Northern Care Alliance.
Together with the project team, the successful candidate will recruit participants, conduct a longitudinal research study, assess biomechanical underpinnings of gait and balance, analyse data, and contribute to the dissemination of the research findings.
Manchester Metropolitan University is a great place to study and Sport & Exercise Sciences at Manchester Met is a vibrant and ambitious department. We provide excellent learning and teaching spaces through innovative programmes delivered from modern new facilities in the heart of Manchester.
More information about our university, department and courses can be found on our dedicated web pages and a video of the new facility which has just opened can be found here
Aims and objectives of the project
We aim to provide a detailed characterisation of gait impairment in people with iNPH to aid diagnosis and provide a platform for future work to objectively assess the effectiveness of treatment interventions using gait analysis variables as the main outcome measure. Our primary objective is to identify key gait and balance variables that can objectively characterise the phenotype in iNPH and that will also serve as measures to accurately quantify changes before and after cerebrospinal fluid tap test. Whilst the emphasis will be placed on objective laboratory-based measures, this work will also seek to validate robust clinical measures to support clinic-based assessments as potential surrogate measures and for instances where sophisticated gait analysis may not be accessible. Secondary characterisation objectives will aim to quantify general levels of everyday activity, psychological factors such as mood, and the qualitative experience of gait analysis in people with iNPH before and after taptest.
Specific requirements of the project
Essential:
Proficiency in the application of relevant equipment, software, and techniques including 3D motion capture, force plates, and electromyography (EMG), as well as statistical data analysis.
Desirable:
Research experience in the field of biomechanics and/or motor control, which should include:
• making a demonstrable, independent contribution to projects
• preparing written reports of results
Additional research experience, including:
• experience of recruiting clinical populations for participation in scientific research
• presenting at national research meetings
• preparing funding proposals and applications to external bodies
Training in the required techniques will be provided, where required.
Student eligibility
The duration of this role is 12 months with an expected start date of 01 July 2022. A stipend of £15,609 will be provided to the successful candidate, as well as £4,395 towards student fees*.
(*Home fees are covered. Eligible overseas students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding where funding is available.)
How to apply
For an informal discussion regarding the requirements of the position, please contact Dr Rick Mills (richard.mills@mmu.ac.uk). To apply, please complete the PGR application form, indicating how you meet the essential and desirable criteria in the personal statement. Submit your application form by email to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk.
Please quote the reference: SciEng-RM-2022-iNPH-gait
While the closing date stated is 21 June 2022 for expected start date July 2022, we will continue to accept applications until the position is filled.
Best wishes,
Rick
Richard Mills Ph.D, FHEA
Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics | Programme Lead, BSc(Hons) Sport & Exercise Science
Dept. of Sport and Exercise Sciences | Faculty of Science and Engineering | Manchester Metropolitan University
Institute of Sport | Room 3.01 | 99 Oxford Road | Manchester | M1 7EL
e: richard.mills@mmu.ac.uk | tel: (+44) 0161 247 5470
Project title: A pilot study to examine the utility of 3D gait analysis in addition to clinical assessments in patients investigated for iNPH pre- and post- lumbar puncture
Summary
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Department of Sport & Exercise Sciences at Manchester Metropolitan University (Manchester, UK) to study for a funded Master’s by Research in biomechanics on a research project funded by the Hydrocephalus Association. This applied biomechanics research project aims to establish the effects of cerebrospinal fluid tap-test on gait and balance in adults with idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH). The project is a collaboration between Manchester Metropolitan University, the University of Gothenburg, and the Northern Care Alliance.
Together with the project team, the successful candidate will recruit participants, conduct a longitudinal research study, assess biomechanical underpinnings of gait and balance, analyse data, and contribute to the dissemination of the research findings.
Manchester Metropolitan University is a great place to study and Sport & Exercise Sciences at Manchester Met is a vibrant and ambitious department. We provide excellent learning and teaching spaces through innovative programmes delivered from modern new facilities in the heart of Manchester.
More information about our university, department and courses can be found on our dedicated web pages and a video of the new facility which has just opened can be found here
Aims and objectives of the project
We aim to provide a detailed characterisation of gait impairment in people with iNPH to aid diagnosis and provide a platform for future work to objectively assess the effectiveness of treatment interventions using gait analysis variables as the main outcome measure. Our primary objective is to identify key gait and balance variables that can objectively characterise the phenotype in iNPH and that will also serve as measures to accurately quantify changes before and after cerebrospinal fluid tap test. Whilst the emphasis will be placed on objective laboratory-based measures, this work will also seek to validate robust clinical measures to support clinic-based assessments as potential surrogate measures and for instances where sophisticated gait analysis may not be accessible. Secondary characterisation objectives will aim to quantify general levels of everyday activity, psychological factors such as mood, and the qualitative experience of gait analysis in people with iNPH before and after taptest.
Specific requirements of the project
Essential:
Proficiency in the application of relevant equipment, software, and techniques including 3D motion capture, force plates, and electromyography (EMG), as well as statistical data analysis.
Desirable:
Research experience in the field of biomechanics and/or motor control, which should include:
• making a demonstrable, independent contribution to projects
• preparing written reports of results
Additional research experience, including:
• experience of recruiting clinical populations for participation in scientific research
• presenting at national research meetings
• preparing funding proposals and applications to external bodies
Training in the required techniques will be provided, where required.
Student eligibility
The duration of this role is 12 months with an expected start date of 01 July 2022. A stipend of £15,609 will be provided to the successful candidate, as well as £4,395 towards student fees*.
(*Home fees are covered. Eligible overseas students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding where funding is available.)
How to apply
For an informal discussion regarding the requirements of the position, please contact Dr Rick Mills (richard.mills@mmu.ac.uk). To apply, please complete the PGR application form, indicating how you meet the essential and desirable criteria in the personal statement. Submit your application form by email to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk.
Please quote the reference: SciEng-RM-2022-iNPH-gait
While the closing date stated is 21 June 2022 for expected start date July 2022, we will continue to accept applications until the position is filled.
Best wishes,
Rick
Richard Mills Ph.D, FHEA
Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics | Programme Lead, BSc(Hons) Sport & Exercise Science
Dept. of Sport and Exercise Sciences | Faculty of Science and Engineering | Manchester Metropolitan University
Institute of Sport | Room 3.01 | 99 Oxford Road | Manchester | M1 7EL
e: richard.mills@mmu.ac.uk | tel: (+44) 0161 247 5470
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