This is a fixed-term post for technical research in close co-operation with clinical staff to realise a capsule endoscope with diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities including ultrasound, optical imaging and other possible modalities. The most important areas of work are:

• To define and continuously revise and refine technically viable and clinically useful specifications for tethered and autonomous ultrasound-enabled capsule endoscopes.

• To communicate the specifications of the capsule-endoscopes to other researchers specialising in different aspects of technology delivery and to work with them to ensure the specifications are met.

• To develop and implement physical models for the testing of ultrasound-enabled capsule endoscopes, understanding and taking into account the distinct characteristics of different regions of the gastrointestinal tract.

• To work closely with clinical staff on the demonstration of the capabilities of ultrasound-enabled capsule endoscopes and to feed back data to enhance these capabilities

In this work, the PDRA will be required to assist in implementation of project management, to work closely with colleagues at the Universities of Dundee, Glasgow and Heriot-Watt, and to report on the work in appropriate peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences. Other opportunities in the project will include public engagement, supervision of students and limited teaching.

Any Additional Information Applications are sought for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant for research into ultrasound-enabled capsule endoscopy, as part of the £6M Sonopill project funded at the University of Dundee, in collaboration with the University of Glasgow, Heriot-Watt University and international industry.

The aim of the project is to identify a clinical framework in which ultrasound-enabled capsule endoscopes, called Sonopills, can be used to achieve minimally-invasive, enhanced diagnosis and therapy of the gastrointestinal tract. Beginning with the small intestine, exploration will also take place into the uses of the Sonopill in the oesophagus and the colon. Initially, tethered Sonopills will be investigated and the knowledge that is generated from these will be used to explore wireless implementations.

The project includes nine research staff in total, covering clinical needs and pre-clinical testing, systems specification and design, ultrasound devices and systems, microengineering, electronics, positioning, and multimodality functions.

The post is for a fixed term up to 60 months, offered as an initial 24 month contract with renewal for an additional 12 months at 12 month intervals up to the maximum of 60 months.