This sandwich placement will be based in the Biological Research Facilities STP supervised by Thomas Snoeks.Project backgroundThe mechanical properties of tissues are critical to understand their functionality and behaviour under various stresses. These properties, which include elasticity, viscosity, and stiffness, determine how tissues respond to external and internal forces, and also how they deform in response to these forces. Changes in tissue elasticity are particularly significant in the context of metastatic cancer. Tumours often alter the mechanical properties of their surrounding environment, becoming stiffer or more elastic, which in turn, can facilitate the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body (aka metastasis).At the Crick, we have a method to measure tissue stiffness/elasticity using Magnetic Resonance Imaging – Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE). Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE) is an imaging technique used to measure the mechanical properties of tissues (in vivo) or tissue samples (ex vivo), providing valuable insights into tissue stiffness and elasticity.This non-invasive method is particularly useful in diagnosing and monitoring diseases that alter tissue mechanics, such as liver fibrosis, where increased stiffness indicates disease progression.The aim of this project is to validate the measurements obtained from MRE with another method of tissue stiffness (example: ultrasound-based elastography and/or rheology); to further optimize the technique to be used in other applications; and to define its limits by doing quality control of the different methods/techniques.After completion of the project, the project holder will gain good knowledge of how Magnetic Resonance Imaging acquisition works (and potentially ultrasound imaging); will understand risks/benefits associated with using non-ionizing radiation; understand the processes behind image acquisition and analysis; understand the mechanobiology of tissues; and know how to safely work in a wet and dry lab.This project involves working indirectly with animal models of disease.Candidate backgroundThe post holder should embody and demonstrate the Crick ethos and ways of working: bold, open and collegial. The candidate must be registered at a UK Higher Education Institution, studying in the UK, and must have completed a minimum of two years' undergraduate study in a relevant discipline, and on track to receive a final degree grade of 2:1 or 1.In addition, they should be able to demonstrate the following experience and key competencies:This project would suit a candidate studying physics, mathematics, computing, or engineering. Biomedical Sciences students with an interest in biophysics and biomechanics are also suited.Good knowledge in relevant scientific area(s).Good written and spoken communication skills.Ability to work independently and also capable of interacting within a group.ReferencesGuimarães, C.F., Gasperini, L., Marques, A.P. and Reis, R.L. (2020) The stiffness of living tissues and its implications for tissue engineering. Nature Reviews Materials 5: 351-370.Whisler, J., Shahreza, S., Schlegelmilch, K., Ege, N., Javanmardi, Y., Malandrino, A., Moeendarbary, E. (2023) Emergent mechanical control of vascular morphogenesis. Science Advances 9: eadg9781. PubMed abstract.
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