PhD Computational modelling and dosimetry for spatially fractionated radiotherapy
PhD @Loughborough University posted 6 hours agoJob Description
Project details
In the UK, over 275,000 people are diagnosed with cancer annually, with half undergoing radiotherapy as part of their treatment. Radiotherapy aims to destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues. However, its application remains limited in some cases, such as treating brain tumours in young children, where radiation can disrupt normal brain development.
This PhD project focuses on exploring and advancing the dosimetric aspects of Microbeam Radiation Therapy (MRT)—a cutting-edge radiotherapy technique that could revolutionise the treatment of specific challenging cancers, such as inoperable paediatric brain tumours. MRT, currently in its preclinical stage, uses parallel X-ray microbeams to deliver therapeutic radiation doses to tumours while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
The primary challenge in translating MRT to clinical practice lies in its reliance on large, costly synchrotron facilities, which are impractical for routine hospital use. This project aims to investigate the potential of Inverse Compton X-ray Sources—compact alternatives to synchrotrons that can produce radiation beams with comparable energy profiles but at lower photon rates, thereby reducing the tissue dose rate. The research will encompass computational simulations and experimental work to evaluate and optimise these sources for MRT applications.
As a PhD student, you will be supervised by Dr Jenny Spiga and will join the Applied Radiation and Medical Physics Group at Loughborough University. This is a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive team dedicated to advancing medical physics research. The project offers exciting opportunities to collaborate with leading international research centres and universities, as well as to present your findings at conferences. A personal development plan will be agreed, which will include bespoke training opportunities offered by the Loughborough Doctoral College (for more information visit Loughborough Doctoral College | Loughborough University.
94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Supervisors
Primary supervisor:Â Jenny Spiga
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Applications are sought from highly motivated students holding (or expecting) a first-class or upper second-class degree in Physics or other relevant discipline. Masters degree in a relevant subject and/or experience in medical physics is desirable. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds, including career breaks. Candidates with experience in Monte Carlo simulation, radiation or medical physics or with an interest in radiobiology are encouraged to apply.
Good computational skills, as well as the desire to work across disciplines, are essential.
To find out more please contact Dr Jenny Spiga.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry
UK fee
£5,006 Full-time degree per annum
International fee
£28,600 Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2025-26 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2025, January 2026, April 2026 and July 2026.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Physics. Please quote the advertised reference number: PH/SP – SF2/2025 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Please note that this criteria is used for both funded and self-funded projects.
Please note, applications for this project are considered on an ongoing basis once submitted and the project may be withdrawn prior to the application deadline, if a suitable candidate is chosen for the project.
