Overview
In this project we will develop new methods for detecting state-of-the-art magnetic nanoparticles. You will work in a multidisciplinary team to take a high throughput, automation assisted approach to develop functional imaging and characterisation tools.
About this opportunity
Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is an emerging imaging modality, detecting nanomolar concentrations of magnetic nanoparticle tracers for medical imaging and diagnostics. MPI is particularly appealing as it can provide highly sensitive, quantitative imaging in areas where MRI struggles. The methodology of MPI is to detect the non-linear response, typically of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs) tracers, under application of a sinusoidal drive magnetic field. More broadly, such magnetic nanoparticles underpin a rapidly growing class of biomedical technologies, from non-invasive medical imaging to advanced biomaterials for tissue engineering. A key opportunity for MPI and wider applications is the co-development of new high-throughput magnetic nanoparticle detection and characterisation methods that are optimised to respond to highly promising new multilayered magnetic materials.
This PhD project will work within a highly interdisciplinary team to develop next-generation magnetic nanoparticle detection methods in tandem with new magnetic nanoparticles that are functionally responsive to biological environment, enabling new ways to image and measure properties inside complex biomaterials.
The project sits at the interface of physics, chemistry, and biomedical engineering, combining nanoparticle design with advanced magnetic imaging and sensing. It will exploit the University of Liverpool’s globally unique Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) infrastructure, including the only MPI scanner in the UK, alongside newly developed magnetic particle rheology and detection technologies.
Research objectives
You will work on an integrated programme that will include:
· Developing magnetic nanoparticle detection methods , including using physical principles of nanoparticle response, signal processing techniques and electronics to design new high-throughput tools for the frequency dependent detection and spatially resolved imaging of next-generation magnetic nanoparticles
· Synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles using novel physical vapour deposition methods, including core-multi shell nanoparticle deposition and top-down lithographic patterning.
· Magnetic characterisation and imaging, using AC susceptometry, magnetic particle rheology, and Magnetic Particle Imaging to extract information on nanoparticle motion, relaxation behaviour, and spatial distribution.
· Data analysis and modelling, including physics-based models and exploratory machine learning approaches to relate magnetic signals to particle structure and local material properties.
Applications span responsive imaging probes, soft biomaterials, and synthetic extracellular matrices, with relevance to tissue engineering, nanomedicine, and long-acting therapeutics.
Training and research environment
This PhD offers exceptionally broad and high-value training. The student will gain hands-on experience in:
· Advanced magnetic characterisation and imaging
Signal processing and electronics
· Physical vapour deposition techniques
Nanolithographic methods
· Soft matter and biomaterials fabrication and sensing
· Interdisciplinary data analysis across chemistry and physics
The project is jointly supervised across Physics and Chemistry, with extensive access to the Centre for Preclinical Imaging, where the MPI system is housed. The student will work closely with researchers developing new magnetic detection technologies, as well as experts in chemistry, biomaterials and soft-matter physics.
This interdisciplinary training will equip the student with a rare skill set at the interface of materials chemistry, applied physics, and biomedical technology, providing excellent preparation for careers in academia, industry, medical imaging, or advanced materials R&D.