PhD Scholarships: Three-dimensional endodontic imaging, University of Manchester

The School of Dentistry at the University of Manchester invites applications for a prestigious PhD studentship commencing in October 2009. Funding will provide full support for the UK/EU tuition fee and a tax-free annual stipend of £13,290.

The primary objectives of this project are to establish diagnostic accuracy of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in imaging root canal anatomy and to develop image optimisation methods. The School has a micro-CT facility to allow excellent standards of validation. The end-point of the research would be a clear understanding of the scope and limitations of CBCT in root canal visualisation and a protocol for optimal imaging. A potential spin-off would be the acquisition of data needed to develop CBCT endodontic software that could be patented and marketed.

Traditional dental imaging relies upon intraoral and panoramic radiographs. The advent of digital radiography has not altered the status quo, i.e. all images are two-dimensional. In the current decade, dental imaging has been revolutionised by the development of cone beam CT. This technology gathers volumetric data, providing the clinician with a three-dimensional dataset.

Endodontics relies heavily on intraoral radiography. In all but simple, single-rooted, teeth the need to identify and localise the root and root canal architecture means that three-dimensional imaging could be of significant value. While early CBCT machines gathered large volume data, typically the whole head or facial bones, newer machines offer small volume options suitable for single tooth imaging. No work has been published looking at visualisation of root canal anatomy using a validation reference standard so the scope and potential of this research is significant.

The successful applicant will develop skills in X-ray imaging using in vitro methods (microCT and CBCT), understanding of and skills in conducting diagnostic accuracy studies, ethical requirements of clinical studies and image analytical techniques. Upon completion of the project, dentists would be ideally placed to become clinical academics or seek research fellowships whilst scientists could develop an academic or commercial research career in bioimaging.
Applicants who are dentally qualified should have some experience of research, preferably through an MSc project, and the ambition to pursue a clinical academic career. Scientists should hold a particular interest in imaging sciences as applied to medicine.

Applications are welcomed from candidates holding, or expecting to obtain, a first or upper second-class honours degree in a relevant subject such as dentistry or computer science. An MSc in Endodontics or BioHealth Informatics is desirable.

More information here.