Available PhD and MSc Project Summaries &
Staff Contact Details
This list of available research projects can be adapted for study at MSc or PhD level. In addition
to the topics outlined in this document, we can also accept applications for a research topic of
your own choosing provided we have an academic member of staff with the expertise to
supervise your proposal.
To find out more about our academic staff research interests, please see pages 162 – 167 of the
postgraduate prospectus. Our website www.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences also contains further
information about the activities of each our research groups. At the end of this document you
will find staff contact details.
Functional Materials Research Group
The School’s Research scored highly in the latest Research Assessment Exercise and in
particular, our Functional Materials Group was rated second nationally in their discipline.
For queries relating to the projects listed below, please contact the named member of staff, or
for queries relating to the group’s general research, contact Dr Gavin Mountjoy, Head of
Functional Materials (Email: G.Mountjoy@kent.ac.uk). Please also see the Functional Materials
Group website: http://www.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences/research/fmg for further information.
1. Synthesis and structural characterisation of bioactive glasses for medical
application (Prof R J Newport)
There are opportunities for talented chemists or physicists to engage in interdisciplinary, multi-university
research focused on the synthesis of new bioactive oxide glasses and the study of their atomic- and mesoscale structure using advanced probe methods such as neutron diffraction and X-ray absorption
spectroscopy. (PhD project only)
2. Trace Analysis Using Vibrational Spectroscopy (Dr M Went)
Most of this research has used Raman spectroscopy which is similar to infra spectroscopy but has several
advantages including the facts that it requires no sample preparation, it is non-destructive and also noncontacting meaning that evidence is preserved. Samples can be analysed through plastic evidence bags or
glass bottles and on almost any substrate making it ideal for forensic applications. Particles as small as 1
μm to 2 μm across can be studied routinely which is perfect for trace evidence analysis. Low frequency
shifts of inorganic molecules are easily accessible allowing study of inorganic pigments, etc.
Recent work has involved the detection of drug particles (e.g. MDMA) in fingerprints after the print has
been developed with a powder and recovered with an adhesive lifter. We have also demonstrated the
detection of drugs of abuse on textile fibres after recovery with adhesive lifters. Results can be obtained
without removing the sample from an evidence bag.
New studies are investigating the spectroscopic detection and identification of trace evidence derived
from the use of cosmetics such as talc, face powders, antiperspirants, sunscreens, lipstick and eye liner,
all of which are easily transferred to skin or garments. Several Raman investigations have studied
cosmetics of archaeological interest, but not for forensic purposes. The ability to characterise traces in situ
(e.g. on fibres) and also after recovery (lifted with tape and secured in an evidence bag) will be explored.
Combining IR and Raman spectroscopes will give information about bulk composition (IR) and pigments
(Raman). (MSC or PhD Project)
3. Forensic Applications of Trace Metal Analysis (Dr M Went)
Using atomic absorption spectroscopy we are detecting trace metals to profile street drug samples. The
metal content can give clues as to the methods used to synthesize the drugs. We are also looking at the
possible contamination of drugs with gunshot residue and hence establish links between drugs and gun
crime. (MSc or PhD Project)
4. Chemical Methods of Drug Detection (Dr M Went)
We are refining microcrystal methods of detecting GHB. This involves GHB synthesis, reagent
preparation, microscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. Other new projects could be developed around a
technique (e.g. Atomic absorption spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy....) or we
could start with forensic problem and apply a variety of techniques. (MSc or PhD Project)
5. Structural studies of metal nanoparticles and nanowires (Dr R E Benfield)
X-ray spectroscopy (EXAFS/XANES/SAXS) to characterise the structures of these novel materials, an
essential step towards understanding and controlling their properties. Research in collaboration with
groups in France and Pakistan. The work will be computer-based, using standard packages of data
refinement programs, and is best suited to a graduate in Physics or Forensic Chemistry.
(MSc or PhD project)
6. Structure of novel glasses (Dr G Mountjoy)
Glasses are non-crystalline solids which are commonly known from their roles as transparent structural
materials and as optical materials. New kinds of glasses are being developed for different applications,
for example biomaterials or nuclear waste immobilisation. The structure of glasses can be studied using
X-ray scattering and computer modelling. The latter includes the molecular dynamics technique which
can predict the arrangement of atoms inside the glass.
(MSc or PhD project)
Centre for Astrophysics and Planetary Science
For queries relating to the projects listed below, please contact the named member of staff, or
for queries relating to the group’s general research, contact Professor Michael Smith, Head of
the Centre for Astrophysics and Planetary Science (CAPS) (Email: M.D.Smith@kent.ac.uk).
Please also see the CAPS website for further information:
http://www.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences/research/space/index.html.
1. The collisional evolution and size distribution of objects in the EdgeworthKuiper Belt.(Prof. Mark Burchell)
This will involve laboratory studies of impact disruption combined with modelling to extrapolate to larger
scales and prediction of the impact history of icy bodies in the outer Solar System.
2. Cosmic dust and cometary structure (Prof. Mark Burchell)
This will involve studying the composition of comets using recent data from space, combined with
laboratory calibrations.
3. Astrobiology (Prof. Mark Burchell)
This will involve studying the composition of comets using recent data from space, combined with
laboratory calibrations.
4. Investigations of star clusters (Dr. Dirk Froebrich)
Our large sample of newly discovered star clusters will be investigated in detail. This will involve new
observations, data mining and theoretical/numerical work.
5. Star Formation in Orion (Dr. Dirk Froebrich)
This project will investigate star formation on large scales in the Orion star> forming region, based on a
variety of available and future multi-wavelength observations.
6. Statistics of Protostars (Dr. Dirk Froebrich)
This project will investigate properties of the earliest stages of star formation (protostellar properties,
jets/outflow) based on statistical analysis as well as detailed numerical modelling.
7. Shock waves in slender jets (Prof. Michael Smith)
A study of how shock waves interact and interfere in the outflows from young stars. This involves
computer simulations of magnetohydrodynamic flows and their visualisation and analysis.
8. Radiative shocks in astrophysics (Prof. Michael Smith)
These two projects involve either a mathematical or numerical study of the variable properties of shock
waves associated with supernovae remnants, planetary nebula and the interstellar medium.
9. Turbulence in star-forming clouds (Prof. Michael Smith)
Multi-dimensional computer simulations of gas flows, aimed at understanding how molecules are
destroyed in supersonic turbulence. This involves large-scale computer simulations, visualisation and
analysis.
10. Near-infrared photometry of star formation regions (Prof. Michael Smith)
This involves the analysis of data from surveys of star-forming clouds, extracting the stellar magnitudes
and locations of young stars, and searching for vital relationships in their properties.
11. Photoevaporation of the molecular cloud by ionising stars (Dr. Jingqi Miao)
This project will investigate the dependence of the photoevaporation rate of molecular by ionising stars on
the physical properties of the molecular cloud and the ionising radiation field. The morphological
instability of the surface of the cloud will be studied as well.
12. UV radiation triggered star formation by SPH (Dr. Jingqi Miao)
This project will investigate the physical conditions for UV radiation triggered star formation in molecular
clouds, the effect of the UV radiation induced shock on the triggered star formation, the triggered star
formation rate in terms of the physical properties of the cloud and the UV radiation fields.
Applied Optics Research Group
For queries relating to the projects listed below, please contact Professor Adrian Podoleanu
(Email: A.G.H.Podoleanu@kent.ac.uk). Please also see the Applied Optics Group website:
http://www.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences/research/aog/projects/oct.html for further information.
1. Novel Adaptive optics (AO) devices and systems for simultaneous optical
coherence tomography (OCT) and AO
A high performance AO system requires a deformable mirror with a large number of elements and large
stroke and a very sensitive, wave-front sensor. Such elements are known in the art of AO for astronomy,
however they are very expensive. The en-face orientation is exactly what is required for combining OCT
with AO for imaging the retina. Innovative aspects: We are aiming for an OCT orientation as that
familiar to ophthalmologists using scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, achievable via en-face OCT. We
predict that by incorporating AO elements, the transversal resolution of en-face OCT would become
comparable to its depth resolution. Specific skills acquired by the fellow: OCT, AO, morphology and
function of the retina.
[1] C. Paterson, I. Munro, J. C. Dainty, “A low cost adaptive optics system using a membrane mirror”,
Opt. Express, Apr. 24, (2000), 6 (9): 175-185.
[2] B. Hermann, E. J. Fernández, A. Unterhuber, H. Sattmann, A. F. Fercher, and W. Drexler, P. M. Prieto
and P. Artal, Adaptive-optics ultrahigh-resolution optical coherence tomography, Opt. Letters, 29(18),
2004, 2142-2144.
2. OCT imaging of the choroid
Problem: In applying OCT to diagnose conditions of the retina it is essential to image and distinguish
details of the choroid. However, this essential structure of the retina is below the retinal pigment
epithelium which has a high reflectivity allowing only a small amount of light to pass through. In order to
penetrate better into the choroid, longer wavelength should be used, as longer wavelengths lead to less
scattering and better penetration. However, for wavelengths longer than 950 nm in the eye, attenuation
due to water absorption builds up. There is however a valley in the absorption after the peak at 970 nm,
at around 1040 nm where the attenuation is less.
Innovative aspects: An immediate problem to solve will be the low sensitivity of Silicon avalanche
photodiodes at this wavelength. InGasAs photodetectors can be used successfully in the OCT channel,
however high gain is required in the confocal channel1. Therefore, different solutions will be researched:
(i) using Germanium avalanche photodetectors or special photomultipliers and (ii) using a supplementary
wavelength, which could be delivered by the same source.
Specific skills acquired by the fellow: optical source design, optical coherence tomography, photodetection,
signal processing, visual optics, morphology and function of the retina.
[1]. Podoleanu AGh, Jackson DA. Noise Analysis of a combined optical coherence tomography and
confocal scanning ophthalmoscope. Appl. Opt. 1999:38:2116-2127.
3. Using low coherence interferometry to measure the wave front
Problem: Using OCT, morphology information as well as wave front aberration can in principle be
obtained.
Innovative aspects: The project will experiment a new diagnostic method that combines OCT and
ocular wavefront measurement in a unique apparatus. This technique has the potential to assess optical
aberrations of the eye. Applications include high-precision cataract surgery, assessment of intraocular
implant lens performance, and binocular optimisation of visual performance.
Specific skills acquired by the fellow: adaptive optics, optical design, visual optics, wavefront sensing.
4. Differential absorption OCT for depth resolved concentration of a
compound
Problem: Depth resolved concentration is an important parameter in disease diagnosis and material
characterisation. For instance, it is important to evaluate how the water content varies in depth in the
cornea or how fast a drug penetrates the tissue, or distribution of a dye in a painting for conservation
work. Only OCT can provide depth resolved information. The method is based on comparing OCT data
acquired at two different wavelengths where the compound to be tracked exhibits significantly different
absorption while scattering is similar. Up to now, this technique has been applied to the cornea only.
Innovative aspects: (i) For the first time, we suggest to implement such a technology using en-face1
OCT and to display the difference in the concentration of the compound within constant depth images,
we also intend to combine en-face OCT with confocal microscopy for this particular goal and provide
versatility, i.e. the same system, with little change, to be able to perform cross section images (B-scans) as
well as constant depth images (C-scans); (ii) We intend to develop such a technology to evaluate the
penetration of different drugs into the superficial tissue, in conjunction with adventurous research for a
contrast medium in OCT; (iii) Evaluate the potential of the method for art conservation and forensic
examinations2; (iv) novel optical sources will be developed by the UP and M partners specifically to target
different compounds.
Specific skills acquired by the fellow: tissue optics, Monte Carlo simulation, spectroscopy, contrast media,
fibre optic, optics of paints and powders.
Different versions: (i) En-face B-and C-scan OCT/confocal system for ophthalmology in vivo; (ii)
Differential OCT for research onto contrast media; (iii) Differential OCT for studies of the photopigments
in the retina (in-vitro and in-vivo); (iv) En-face B-and C-scan OCT/confocal system for paintings.
[1].A. Gh. Podoleanu, G. M. Dobre, D. J. Webb, D. A. Jackson, "Coherence Imaging by Use of a Newton
Rings Sampling Function", Opt. Lett., Vol. 21, No. 21, (1996), pp. 1789-1791.
[2].H. Liang, R. Cucu, G. M. Dobre, D. A. Jackson, J. Pedro, C. Pannell, D. Saunders, A. Gh. Podoleanu,
Application of OCT to Examination of Easel Paintings, EWOFS'04, 2nd European Workshop on Optical
Fibre Sensors, June 9-11, 2004, Santander, Spain, Proc. SPIE Int. Soc. Opt. Eng. 5502, 378 (2004).
5. Ultra-high precision eye-tracking
Problem: OCT technology gives access to micron resolution in vivo in the eye. However, involuntary eye
movements impede the achievement of such a high accuracy. Tracking using a supplementary pair of
scanners was recently reported1. However, this fails in tracking the eye position axially.
Innovative aspects: for the first time, a fast OCT channel will monitor the axial position of the cornea.
This channel will operate 10 times faster than the frame rate to provide the accurate axial position of
the eye. Axial tracking will be combined with angular tracking. Principles of simultaneous low coherence
reflectometry at different depths will be employed2, as we have shown recently. Different versions will be
evaluated, such as resonant scanning and spectral OCT to achieve fast pick-up of the eye position. If eye
movements will be detected and removed, then for the first time, reliable 3D imaging with high resolution
of the retina and flow will be made possible. The technology could then be extended to combined
platforms of OCT and adaptive optics, for enhanced sharpness in visualising the photoreceptors.
Specific skills acquired by the fellow: scanning technology, fibre optic instrumentation, electronics design,
visual optics.
Different versions: (i) Ultra-high precision eye-tracking for flow measurements in the retina; (ii) Fast eye
tracking compatible with en-face and cross section OCT;
[1] Ferguson RD, Hammer DX, Paunescu LA, Beaton S, Schuman JS, Tracking optical coherence
tomography, Opt. Lett., 29 (18): 2139-2141, 2004.
[2] A. Gh. Podoleanu et al., Hybrid configuration for simultaneous en-face OCT imaging at different
depths, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5634, (SPIE, Bellingham, WA, 2005), pp.160-165.
6. Supercontinuum fibre source for OCT, spectroscopy
Problem: Supercontinuum generation1 has long been used as a convenient experimental technique for
producing broadband radiation for various spectroscopic applications. The use of photonic-crystal fibres
and tapered fibre for generation of supercontinuum emission, offers a way to create new broadband
sources for spectroscopic and OCT applications.
Innovative aspects: we plan to develop a compact and small-size supercontinuum source for OCT,
controlled entirely through graphical easy-to-use software package.
Specific skills acquired by the fellow: Fiber optics (technology), lasers, fibre optic amplifiers, Photonic
crystal fibre, Non-linear fibre optics, general optoelectronics, fiber optic characterization and testing, GProgramming language (e.g.: LabView).
[1]. S. Coen, A.H.L. Chau, R. Leonhardt, J.D. Harvey, J.C. Knight, W.J. Wadsworth, and P.St.J. Russell,
“White-light supercontinuum with 60 ps pump pulses in a photonic crystal fiber”, Optics Letters, 26 (17),
pp1356-1358, (2001).
7. Development of in vivo OCT imaging of tissue morphogenesis and apoptosis
in Drosophila and chick embryos
The development of tissue and body form during embryogenesis is characterised by dynamic movements
of epithelial cell sheets. These are recapitulated during wound healing in the adult organism. Study of
wound healing in the chick embryo, a classic embryological system, is limited by the inability to live image
the repair of tissue wounds in vivo. Similarly existing methods for study of programmed cell death or
apoptosis, an essential part of tissue remodelling during normal animal development, either require tissue
fixation or have a limited lifespan during live confocal imaging. Ideally analysis of these dynamic processes
within the embryo requires a non-destructive, non-invasive imaging technique. Systems will be developed
that will allow OCT imaging at the cellular level in vivo in a developing organism, providing for the first
time live imaging of morphogenesis in the chick and full-depth imaging of apoptosis in Drosophila
embryos. The project aims to combine time domain and spectral domain OCT to image embryos.
8. Novel configurations of depth scanning for OCT
The characteristics of the scanning device are of utmost importance to the overall performance of OCT
systems. New efficient, fast scanning and low cost configurations need to be developed for time domain
OCT systems to reach video rate imaging speeds. The fellow will study alternative approaches to those
currently used, as well as the miniaturisation of fast delay lines to be integrated in compact imaging
systems.
9. Noise in Broadband Optical Source Fibre, femtosecond sources and SNR
analysis
Noise limits the maximum penetration depth in OCT and different OCT methods achieve different signal
to noise ratio while the noise characteristics of modern sources deviate from thermal noise. The fellow will
evaluate the statistical properties of the novel sources and derive optimisation parameters for
combination of source and OCT system. Such sources are new and under continuous development and
therefore such a study is needed in order to obtain the maximum performance of the imaging system.
10. Fourier domain OCT using a 2D array
This is a novel OCT set-up which performs transversal and depth scanning using a 2D photodetector
array
11. Fibre optic sensors for medical applications
Applied Optics Group has a long expertise in fibre optic sensors. This projects aims to take advantage of
the novel developments in optical sources and optical configuration and to apply them to sensing.
12. Polarisation sensitive imaging of the retina
A dual channel OCT channel using polarisation maintaining components will be implemented. The aim is
to measure the polarisation rotation of the retina nerve fibre layer.
13. Collaboration with local NHS in imaging the eye
Several joint projects with the NHS are running in the Applied Optics Group which target diseases of the
eye. The project is about research on combinations of imaging techniques, such as microperimetry, OCT,
fundus imaging and fluorescence to fight age related macula degeneration. Other projects aim to fight
the glaucoma, in which case the project aims to assembly of a polarisation sensitive system.
14. Collaboration with local NHS in fighting cancer
Continuous research activity with Maidstone and Tonbridge NHS Trust aims to image basal cell
carcinoma of the eye lids. Tissue is brought to the Applied Optics Group for imaging. The project intends
to move the research a step further by installing a fully functional imaging system at the NHS site.
15. Combination of time domain (TD) OCT and spectral domain (SD) OCT
SD-OCT now operates at acquisition speeds 100 times higher than their TD-OCT counterpart. However,
it is possible to incorporate concepts of SD-OCT into TD-OCT and improve their performance. The
project aims to evaluate the speed and noise improvement of a TD-OCT system using a multitude of
spectrometer channels.
16. Producing a fundus image of the eye using SD-OCT
SD-OCT produces cross sections. However, when imaging the eye it is important to know what part of
the tissue is investigated. Therefore, an en-face image is necessary which is now produced with a
secondary CCD camera. This method does not provide pixel to pixel correspondence. A better method is
to use a software cut in a 3D collection of cross section OCT images.
17. Elimination of mirror terms in spectral low coherence interferometry and
OCT
Characteristic for spectral methods is that the information for positive and negative optical path
differences equal in length is the same. This disturbs the measurement and introduces mirror images in
OCT. Several methods have been suggested.
The project is about reviewing and investigating comparatively all these methods: phase shifting
interferometry, modulation to recover the complex conjugate and Talbot bands.
18. Profiling the distribution of power in the spectrometer used in SD-OCT for
enhanced sensitivity at large optical path difference (OPD) values
The sensitivity of SD-OCT methods decays with the OPD. Generation of a comb has been suggested
recently, as well as the alteration of power distribution in the two beams incident on the grating. The two
methods will be assessed comparatively.
19. Fingerprint detection with forensic applications. Anti-spoof optical device for
faked fingerprints
Introduction: This project is about biometrics, or better, about deceiving the biometrics technology.
Biometrics is the science of using biological properties, such as fingerprints, iris scans, voice recognition, to
identify individuals. In a world of growing terrorism, the field of biometrics is rapidly expanding. At the
USA border crossing points, special readers “collect” fingerprints using optical scanners. These are not
perfect, as the optical pattern read could be disturbed or altered by different methods. Spoofing is the
process by which individuals overcome a system through an introduction of a fake sample. For instance,
individuals can try to cover their own fingerprint with thin layers carrying a different pattern.
Objectives: To devise a proof of concept optical set-up using optical coherence tomography (OCT).
Evaluate the performances of an OCT scanner in comparison with other optical reading
methods.References: 1. Nixon, KA, Rowe, RK
Multispectral fingerprint imaging for spoof detection, P SOC PHOTO-OPT INS 5779: 214-225 2005.
2. Parthasaradhi, S, Derakhshani, R, Hornak, L, et al.Improvement of an algorithm for recognition of
liveness using perspiration in fingerprint devices
P SOC PHOTO-OPT INS 5404: 270-277 2004
20. Research on spectral shaping for broadband light sources in optical
coherence tomography
A number of different procedures for shaping and controlling the source spectrum will be evaluated. One
possibility to be investigated uses a neutral density filter based on a programmable LCD substrate placed
between two dispersors (diffraction gratings or prisms). Such a configuration is similar to that reported for
Fourier transform spectroscopy [15], [16] and adapted here for several tasks to be achieved. The
dispersed spectrum, incident on a relatively large area of the liquid crystal, is transmitted through to the
second dispersor which re-collimates the beam and enables the spectrally shaped light to be coupled into
the output SM fibre. By suitably adjusting the transmission of selected pixels on the LCD, it is possible to
attenuate selected wavelengths and in this way shape the output spectrum. The selection can target
narrow or medium band output and a controlled Gaussian spectrum profile is also achievable. Depending
on the optical band of the source, one, two or three launchers will be assembled. For light from an
existing 1300 nm SLD source, of 70 nm band, as well as light from an existing Ti:Sa laser, 40 nm, one
fibre launcher will be used (obviously with a different fibre core diameter). For a much wider spectrum
from a fibre source which will be acquired for this work, two to three launchers will be optimised to
operate at desired central wavelengths, with different bandwidths. The optimum split in bands of the
source spectrum will be evaluated for each such launcher, a possible example could be the following
bands: G: 450-650 nm, R: 650 – 950 nm and IR: 950 – 1700 nm. Illumination with spectrally broad
light in any of the bands listed above will result in en-face slicing as thin as a few microns or less.
However the noise performance of the imaging system may deteriorate at broader illumination
bandwidths and research is needed to characterise the trade-off between noise and the depth resolution.
21. Broadband sequential OCT/confocal system
The work will investigate the widest achievable optical bandwidth in each operating window and will aim
to devise a configuration with a minimum number of moving parts/changing elements to accommodate
different bandwidths. The sequential configuration discussed earlier requires changing only the SM
coupler, and with FC connectorised components and suitable fixtures design, this task and subsequent
optical adjustments could be performed relatively quickly. Depending on the spectral band, different
photodetectors are required. UV-enhanced sensitivity detectors and Silicon APDs (e.g. the Hamamatsu
S5343/S5344 series) will be used for the short wavelengths; Silicon APDs will be used for VIS to IR, and
Ge APDs for the IR band. Achromatic optics elements, as well as polarisation insensitive beamsplitters will
be used. However, any change in the operating wavelength will still require an adjustment of focus and
realignment of beams in the two interferometer arms. ZemaxTM optical design software will be used to
assess different avenues of compromise and estimate the focus correction.
22. Research on an achromatic probe head for optical coherence tomography
This WP addresses the challenge of designing multi-element optics with low overall aberrations.
ZemaxTM design will be used to devise suitable interface optics tailored to each operating band. Recent
studies in the theory of confocal microscopy [17] and OCT have shown the complexity of imaging
through multiple interfaces of different indexes, (such an example is biological tissue). When changing
microscope objectives to accommodate different bands and achieve different NAs, the OPD will change,
therefore the probe head will incorporate path length compensation means.
23. High numerical aperture interface optics head for optical coherence
tomography
For smaller numerical apertures of less than 0.2, the confocal channel’s depth of focus is sufficiently large
to act as a guiding tool for the high resolution OCT. For working distances of ~1 mm the confocal image,
will exhibit lower depth resolution than the OCT image and will therefore appear more contiguous. This
aspect makes it a useful guiding tool for navigation through the stack of C-scan OCT images. However,
for an improved transversal resolution of ~3 mm or better, required by some microscopy applications,
high NA interface optics and dynamic focus are needed. Numerical aperture values above 1 can be
achieved with a scanning platform in which the X and Y scanners are separated by relay optics. All these
capabilities point towards the need for a versatile probe head with built-in adjustments.
24. Research into novel dynamic focus procedures for en-face imaging of tissue
Dynamic focus coupled with active fibre alignment control is needed for ensuring a uniform resolution
when coupling a wide spectrum into a single mode fibre for OCT operation. Research is needed into
programmable corrections (with indication of four pre-set positions for the collimating lens) or by
mounting the probe fibre lead on an actively controlled micro-positioning unit.
25. Spectroscopic Optical Coherence Tomography and Confocal Imaging
Performance assessment for selected parameters will be conducted on a full spectroscopic OCT/confocal
platform available in the AOG laboratories which uses at its core a supercontinuum fibre source. Signal to
noise ratio of spectral signatures vs wavelength, transversal and depth resolution in both channels and
dispersion in the OCT channel will be among the parameters investigated.
26. Adjustable depth resolution OCT
The system proposed will offer yet a different functionality which will be assessed. By manipulating the
illumination spectrum, the whole volume of the specimen could be imaged in the OCT channel alone,
since spectral control can allow the operation of an OCT set-up with adjustable depth resolution. This
permits initial rough adjustments of the target before the probe head, and the subsequent reduction of
the coherence length by introducing changes to the source spectrum. For example, for a central
wavelength of 1300 nm, a reduction of the bandwidth to 2 nm will determine a corresponding increase
of the depth resolution to ~750 mm, which will be sufficiently large to guide the image registration
process in the axial direction (in depth). Previous trials of adjustable resolution OCT suffered from
unwanted power output variations upon coherence length adjustment. The illumination system will need
to be designed in such a way that it will enable control of the transmission at various wavelengths so that
the output power can remain fairly constant. This could be achieved for example by devising a computer
protocol to integrate the area under the spectral curve and maintain it constant as the spectral width
changes.
27. Spectroscopic investigations in separate wavelengthbands
An optimum split of the optical band in several small bands will be evaluated and then implemented
using the spectral shaper at WP1. Information will be collected in both OCT and confocal channel for
each appropriate spectral window. OCT A-scan measurements will be carried out for each spectral
window. A-scan measurements will be carried out using the whole optical band available from a number
of spectral windows available from a supercontinuum source (400-1700 nm). Using appropriate
software, the Fourier transform will be evaluated and the spectrum divided in a number of sub-bands. An
inverse FFT will be evaluated within each band and subsequent comparative analysis of the A-scans and
images will be carried out with the purpose of evaluating their spectroscopic response. A number of
different paints, with known spectral absorption properties will be deposited on glass in thin layers. Their
absorption will be chosen in the band of wavelengths given by the spectral shaping process. Samples such
as ICG and fluorescein dyes can also be used for system calibration. Spectroscopic OCT data can also be
acquired from a suspension of red blood cells with albumin with different fluorophore concentrations. A
multiple cell phantom matrix will be assembled which will allow different concentrations to be tested
quasi-simultaneously, with the fluorescent target placed within a scattering medium. An important
application is that of establishing the shift in the absorption properties of dyes when incorporated into the
living matter, in order to understand better any discrepancies between in vitro and in vivo optical
measurements.
28. Theoretical modelling
The recovery and interpretation of spectral data from the spectral signatures of deep layers (identified
using the depth resolution capabilities of OCT) presents several challenges in terms of the inversion
algorithms needed to uniquely recover the absorption spectral parameters of different layers within the
assumption that scattering coefficients do not vary significantly with wavelength. Scattering at different
wavelengths will be modelled and an assessment will be carried out of the likely trade-off between depth
resolution and the theoretically attainable resolution of absorbance measurements (limited by the number
of measurement windows available for a given illumination spectrum). The advantages offered by
employing a spectral triangulation algorithm, by sampling OCT returns at given wavelengths
corresponding to the absorption maximum and to lower absorptions either side of the maximum, will be
assessed.
[18] D. Funk and D. Moore, "Fourier-transform spectroscopy using liquid-crystal technology," Opt. Lett.
22, 1799-1801 (1997)
[19]Y. Q. Lu, F. Du, Y. H. Lin and S. T. Wu, “Variable optical attenuator based on polymer-stabilized
twisted nematic liquid crystal,” Opt. Express 12, 1221-1227 (2004).
http://www.opticsexpress.org/abstract.cfm?URI=OPEX-12-7-1221 [20]
[21] T. Fukano and I. Yamaguchi, "Geometrical cross-sectional imaging by a heterodyne wavelengthscanning interference confocal microscope," Opt. Lett. 25, 548-550 (2000)
Forensic Imaging
The research of the forensic imaging team is primarily applied, focusing on mathematical and
computational techniques and employing a wide variety of image processing and analysis
methods for applications in modern forensic science. The group has attracted approximately
£850,000 of research funding in the last five years, from several academic, industrial and
commercial organisations in the UK and the US. The group also collaborates closely with the
Forensic Psychology Group of the Open University. Current active research projects include:
• The development of high-quality, fast facial composite systems based on evolutionary
algorithms and statistical models of human facial appearance
• Interactive, evolutionary search methods and evolutionary design
• Statistically rigorous ageing of photo-quality images of the human face (for tracing and
identifying of missing persons)
• Real and pseudo 3-D models for modelling and analysis of the human face
• Generating ‘mathematically fair’ virtual line-ups for suspect identification.
If you are interested in a research project in the Forensic Imaging field, please contact Dr Chris
Solomon or Dr Stuart Gibson to discuss your proposal.
Staff Research Interests and Contact Details
Dr Maria Alfredsson: quantum-mechanical modelling of clusters, surfaces and solids; interatomic potential calculations of defects and grain-boundaries; high pressure and temperature
simulations; H-bonding.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823237
E: M.L.Alfredsson@kent.ac.uk
Dr Robert Benfield: the structure and bonding of metal clusters and nanowires; ordered
arrays of metal nanowires contained within mesoporous alumina membranes, and nanoparticles
of cobalt.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823558
E: R.E.Benfield@kent.ac.uk
Dr Stefano Biagini: ring-opening metathesis polymerisations; complex monomer syntheses;
block copolymers, self-assembly, properties and applications; nuclear medicine; unnatural amino
acid and peptide syntheses; radiolabelling; nanoparticles; surface modifications on silica
magnetite.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823521
E: S.C.G.Biagini@kent.ac.uk
Professor Mark Burchell: hypervelocity impacts, the very violent events typical of Solar
System impacts, including: impact cratering in ices, intact capture in aerogel, impact disruption of
target bodies, oblique incidence impacts, astrobiology (survival of microbial life in impact events);
Solar System dust using impact ionisation techniques.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823248
E: M.J.Burchell@kent.ac.uk
Dr George Dobre: optical coherence tomography; optical design; interferometric sensors;
fibre optic sensors.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823234
E: G.Dobre@kent.ac.uk
Dr Dirk Froebrich: earliest stages of star and star cluster formation; structure and properties
of molecular clouds; structure analysis of starclusters.
Contact details:
T: 01227 827346
E: df@star.kent.ac.uk
Dr Stuart Gibson: digital image processing with forensic applications; computer vision;
interactive evolutionary computation (IEC) and cognitive psychology relating to human facial
appearance.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823271
E: S.J.Gibson@kent.ac.uk
Dr Simon J Holder: synthesis and application of novel polymeric materials; polymerisation of
dichlorodiorganosilanes to improve the yields, allowing for the first time the high yield synthesis
of a variety of polysilanes at ambient temperatures; synthesis by controlled polymerisations and
application of novel copolymers; design and development of novel non-invasive polymer-based
optical sensor systems.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823547
E: S.J.Holder@kent.ac.uk
Dr Stephen Lowry: CAPS group.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823834
E: S.C.Lowry@kent.ac.uk
Dr Jing-Qi Miao: SPH numerical simulation of collapsing molecular clouds; effect of the UV
radiation on the Bright brim clouds; DSMC modelling of the space particles impacts on
spacecraft; structures and formation of proplyds.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823834
E: J.Miao@kent.ac.uk
Dr Gavin Mountjoy: multi-technique characterisation of oxide glasses (including sol gels);
vibrational spectroscopy of silicate glasses; use of X-ray absorption spectroscopy to characterise
nanocrystalline transition metal alloys and oxides, including nanocomposite materials.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823228
E: G.Mountjoy@kent.ac.uk
Professor Robert Newport: atomic-scale structure of novel amorphous (non-crystalline)
materials of contemporary interest such as nonlinear optical glasses and ‘sol gel’ glasses which
may be catalytically or biologically active.
Contact details:
T: 01227 827887
E: R.J.Newport@kent.ac.uk
Professor Adrian Podoleanu: non-invasive imaging of tissue, especially optical coherence
tomography and confocal microscopy; optical sensing; fast optoelectronics.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823272
E: A.G.H.Podoleanu@kent.ac.uk
Dr Jorge Quintanilla: Spontaneous Fermi surface deformations in strongly-correlated
quantum matter; unconventional pairing in superconductors; complementarity between cold
atom and condensed matter experiments; proximity effect in magnetic nano-structures; design
of new quantum information-based neutron scattering and cold atoms probes of strongly
correlated quantum matter; and novel topological excitations in frustrated magnets
Contact details:
T: 01235 446353 (STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory) & 01227 823759 (University of Kent)
E: J.Quintanilla@kent.ac.uk
Professor Michael Smith: star formation; molecular clouds; evolution of galaxies;
astrophysical simulation.
Contact details:
T: 01227 827654
E: M.D.Smith@kent.ac.uk
Dr Chris Solomon: image processing and reconstruction; facial modelling, encoding and
synthesis; facial composites, forensic image analysis.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823270
E: C.J.Solomon@kent.ac.uk
Professor Paul Strange: first principles calculation of the properties of condensed matter; the
electronic and magnetic properties of rare earth materials, superconductors, carbon and other
nanotubes; superatom materials.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823321
E: P.Strange@kent.ac.uk
Dr Mike Went: chemistry of co-ordinated alkynes; new chelating and macrocyclic ligands with
phosphine, thioether and ether donor groups; synthesis of new radiopharmaceuticals; forensic
analysis.
Contact details:
T: 01227 823540
E: M.J.Went@kent.ac.uk
How to Apply
To apply for postgraduate research in the School of Physical Sciences, please complete the
online application form at:
http://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgrad/apply/index.html
Within the application form you will be asked to write a research proposal and we would
request that you name the supervisor with whom you would like to work.
If you are applying for an advertised studentship, please indicate the title of the project and
reference number if applicable.