2026 Grist Group: A Unified Deep Learning Framework for Multimodal Imaging of the Healthy Human Lung

About the Research 

There are many excellent ways to visualise lung structure, for example using computed tomography, however understanding the functional status of the lungs (for example blood flow and the movement of gas between the lung to the capillary bed) is beyond the capability of structural imaging.

By combining computed tomography with hyperpolarised Xenon magnetic resonance imaging, there is an opportunity to provide a holistic view of the lungs in health and disease.

This project will focus on the development of methods to combine data from structural and functional imaging modalities using deep learning-based methods to co-register data and provide regional metrics of lung function. You’ll be embedded in a group of data scientists, clinicians, and physicists and will be well supported during your time here in Oxford.

We look forward to you coming to join us!

Training Opportunities 

The group offers extensive training opportunities in scientific computing (Matlab/Python, C, C++), machine learning, and clinical trial design and implementation.

You will also be given opportunity to engage in scientific leadership opportunities, to develop your presentation and communication skills, and to work with a multi-disciplinary team across the Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research.

Students are encouraged to attend the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine DPhil Course, which takes place in the autumn of their first year. Running over several days, this course helps students to develop basic research and presentation skills, as well as introducing them to a wide range of scientific techniques and principles, ensuring that students have the opportunity to build a broad-based understanding of differing research methodologies.

Generic skills training is offered through the Medical Sciences Division's Skills Training Programme. This programme offers a comprehensive range of courses covering many important areas of researcher development: knowledge and intellectual abilities, personal effectiveness, research governance and organisation, and engagement, influence, and impact. Students are actively encouraged to take advantage of the training opportunities available to them.

As well as the specific training detailed above, students will have access to a wide range of seminars and training opportunities through the many research institutes and centres based in Oxford.

The Department has a successful mentoring scheme, open to graduate students, which provides an additional possible channel for personal and professional development outside the regular supervisory framework. We hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of our efforts to build a happy and rewarding environment where all staff and students are supported to achieve their full potential.

 Additional Supervisors 

1. Bartek Papiez

2. Fergus Gleeson

Publications