Joint VetCT-University of Cambridge PhD Position using Machine Learning for the recognition of anatomical and radiological features in veterinary computed tomography (CT scans)

Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics

Applications are invited for a VetCT funded PhD awarded to the University of Cambridge at the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics (DAMTP). The supervisor will be Dr Michael Roberts (DAMTP), with advisors Professor Carola-Bibiane Schönlieb (DAMTP) and Professor Pietro Liò (Department of Computer Science and Technology). This is a fantastic opportunity to join a young and dynamic team working toward improving the life of veterinarians and their animal patients.

Company profile:

VetCT was established in 2009, headquartered in Cambridge (UK), with a mission to improve the quality and efficiency of veterinary care. VetCT owns a large high-quality research patient database of animal CT scans, radiographs, MRI, and is currently developing artificial intelligence (AI) tools to improve workflows and clinical diagnosis for veterinary patients.

Background to the project:

The rapid development of deep learning techniques in recent years enables the increasing utilisation of computer-aided detection (CAD) tools in assisting radiologists with their workflows and clinical diagnosis. In contrast to human medicine, the use of CAD and AI with veterinary studies is minimal and much less explored with its power yet to be exploited. The aim of the project is firstly to develop an AI-based tool to automatically detect, and segment anatomical body areas included in an animal CT scans. Secondly to further develop the tool to allow triage of the clinical cases based on AI recognition of specific imaging features. This project will also involve curation for the clinical and imaging data along with application and development of new techniques for pattern recognition (deep learning), image synthesis and domain adaptation.

Who we are looking for:

The candidate must hold (or be predicted to achieve) the equivalent of a first-class degree in mathematics, biomedicine, computer science, or a general natural science. Experience with computer languages and code writing are highly relevant for the project and an aptitude for computer programming is essential. The candidate must be self-motivated, a good problem solver, a great communicator, and be able to work cohesively within a multi-disciplinary team.

What we can provide:

Along with a great environment to live and work in, the appointee will receive the necessary training in applied mathematics, machine learning and the latest understanding of computed tomography applied to veterinary patients. Your supervisors will provide private tuition to develop further skills that you need to optimally contribute to the success of the PhD project. You will also be equipped with any necessary technology and support for travel to conferences, research visits and workshops as needed. VetCT will provide all necessary tools to access and curate the image database, and as well as all the necessary basic medical knowledge to understand the impact of the PhD project. This PhD also provides a unique opportunity to work across the academic and commercial sectors between two world class institutions (University of Cambridge and VetCT).

https://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/38650/