PhD Studentship: Computational Modelling of Intracranial Haemorrhage and Traumatic Brain Injuries

PhD Project Opportunity: Computational Modelling of Intracranial Haemorrhage and Traumatic Brain Injuries

Background: Traumatic Intracranial Haemorrhage (ICH) is a serious medical emergency resulting from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) due to falls or collisions. ICH can lead to significant disability and death. Current treatment approaches mainly focus on monitoring symptoms and imaging, but responses to ICH can vary greatly among patients, making it challenging for clinicians to predict haemorrhage progression and determine the best timing for surgery. Understanding the biomechanics of ICH is crucial, as bleeding affects brain tissue, increases intracranial pressure, and disrupts blood flow. However, this biomechanical data is not yet integrated into clinical practice. This PhD project aims to fill this gap by developing advanced models to simulate the mechanical progression of ICH, enhancing clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.

Objectives:

• Model Development: Create and validate high-fidelity finite element models to simulate mechanical responses during ICH.
• Data Correlation: Link biomechanical factors (like pressure and brain deformation) with patient outcomes using large-scale clinical databases (e.g., CENTER-TBI).
• Predictive Modelling: Use machine learning algorithms to develop fast predictive models for ICH progression, aiding real-time clinical decision support.

Collaborations: This project will involve collaboration with top institutions, including:

• University of Sheffield Medical School
• University of Cambridge
• Antwerp University Hospital
• Salford Royal Hospital
• Addenbrooke’s Hospital

These partnerships will provide access to extensive clinical datasets and expertise in neuroimaging, emergency medicine, and neurosurgery. The University of Sheffield’s INSIGNEO Institute will also offer support for blood flow modelling.

Applicant Requirements: We welcome applications from graduates with backgrounds in biomechanics, mechanical engineering, neuroimaging, or computer science. Other relevant STEM or engineering backgrounds and industrial experience will also be considered. Candidates should hold or be nearing completion of a degree with a good classification (2.1/1st or equivalent) in a related field. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills are essential.

Start Date: Immediate, with a latest start date of September 2025.

Funding Notes: Funding covers fees for UK (Home) applicants and includes a tax-free stipend at the standard EPSRC rate (£19,237 in 2024/25) for up to 3.5 years. Overseas applicants will need to cover the additional fee difference (approximately £22,884 per year) from their own funds.

Contact Information: Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Xiancheng Yu (xiancheng.yu@sheffield.ac.uk) to discuss their interest and fit for the project before applying.

Email Subject: “PhD enquiry: Computational Modelling of Intracranial Haemorrhage and Traumatic Brain Injuries”