PhD opportunity [October 2026 start] on "Learning-based vision system for marker-free external ventricular drain (EVD) neuronavigation"

Applications are invited for a fully funded 1+3 years MRes+PhD or 4 years PhD EPSRC CDT PSI studentship (including tuition fees, annual stipend and consumables) starting in October 2026.

Award details:

• Focus: Learning-based vision system for marker-free external ventricular drain (EVD) neuronavigation
• First supervisor: Tom Vercauteren
• Second supervisor: Jonathan Shapey
• Funding type: 4-year fully-funded EPSRC CDT PSI studentship including a stipend, tuition fees, research training and support grant (RTSG), and a travel and conference allowance.
• Start date: October 2026

Project description

This research aims to develop a marker-free, AI learning-based neuronavigation system for external ventricular drain (EVD) placement. By leveraging real-time detection and tracking, precise image registration, and intuitive visualisation, the system seeks to enhance surgical accuracy, reduce complications, and address the limitations of traditional and existing image-guided techniques. To fulfil this aim, the following objectives will be pursued: 1) develop a real-time tracking system using stereo cameras and bespoke AI algorithms to capture and analyse the surgical scene, achieving high-precision tracking of the patient’s head and surgical instruments; 2) construct an efficient 6D pose estimation method for registering preoperative and intraoperative data, providing accurate guidance for surgical procedures.

Application Process

More information about the opportunity here and here.