UOL
Gas flow Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the upper airway and Computational Fluid Dynamic modelling of airflow during Above Cuff Vocalisation
✓ Fully Funded
⏰ Closing Soon
🎓 Data Science
🎓 Dynamics
🎓 Engineering
🎓 Fluid Mechanics
🎓 Mathematical Modelling
🎓 Medicine
CFD
MRI imaging
above cuff vocalisation
airflow modelling
airway dynamics
clinical guidelines
medical device optimisation
patient safety
subglottic airflow
tracheostomy
Funded CDT PhD at University of Leeds combining gas flow MRI and CFD to model airflow during Above Cuff Vocalisation in tracheostomy patients, providing evidence-based guidance for safe and effective clinical application.
Project Description
This PhD at University of Leeds is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Fluid Dynamics.
The project investigates Above Cuff Vocalisation (ACV), a technique allowing tracheostomy patients to speak by directing airflow through the larynx above the cuff of a tracheostomy tube. Current clinical guidance is limited, and high airflow rates can pose safety risks.
Key research components include:
Gas flow MRI imaging of healthy individuals and tracheostomy patients
Development and validation of CFD models of the upper airway
Simulation of ACV airflow with different tube designs and sizes
Evaluation of flow dynamics to inform safe and effective clinical guidelines
Integration of medical and engineering insights to improve patient outcomes
The project is conducted in partnership with ATOS Medical Ltd and combines fluid dynamics, mathematical modelling, and applied biomedical research.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have:
First-class or upper second-class British Bachelors Honours degree (or international equivalent)
Background in Engineering, Fluid Mechanics, Physics, Medicine, or related fields
Desirable:
Experience in CFD or MRI imaging
Knowledge of airflow or respiratory dynamics
Programming and data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
First-class or upper second-class British Bachelors Honours degree (or international equivalent)
Background in Engineering, Fluid Mechanics, Physics, Medicine, or related fields
Desirable:
Experience in CFD or MRI imaging
Knowledge of airflow or respiratory dynamics
Programming and data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
How to Apply
Apply via University of Leeds CDT application portal:
Steps:
Select Research Postgraduate
Choose EPSRC CDT Future Fluid Dynamics
Upload CV, transcripts, and CDT personal statement
No research proposal required
Contact:
Dr Zinedine Khatir – Z.Khatir@leeds.ac.uk
CDT: fluid-dynamics@leeds.ac.uk
Steps:
Select Research Postgraduate
Choose EPSRC CDT Future Fluid Dynamics
Upload CV, transcripts, and CDT personal statement
No research proposal required
Contact:
Dr Zinedine Khatir – Z.Khatir@leeds.ac.uk
CDT: fluid-dynamics@leeds.ac.uk
Eligibility
UK/Home
EU
International
Supervisor Profile
DZ
Dr Zinedine Khatir
University of Leeds, EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Fluid Dynamics
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