Přehled

Title: Applications of chromatic pupillometry in vision research and neurology
Study program: Biomedical Technology and Bioinformatics
Supervisor: Doc. Ing. Radim Kolář, Ph.D.

Topic description:

Pupillometry has emerged as a powerful, non-invasive tool for assessing visual and neurological function. In particular, chromatic pupillometry, which utilizes different wavelengths of light to stimulate specific retinal and neural pathways, holds significant potential for advancing diagnostics in ophthalmology and neurology.

This PhD project will focus on the development and application of a chromatic pupillometer, enabling precise assessment of pupil responses under controlled chromatic stimuli. The core focus of this PhD project is the development of a chromatic pupillometer, designed for both clinical and research applications. As part of this work, the candidate will actively participate in data acquisition, collecting pupillary response data from both healthy individuals and patient cohorts to investigate dynamic changes in pupil behaviour. Additionally, the project involves developing advanced data processing pipelines to analyse pupillary responses under various chromatic conditions. A key objective is to identify potential biomarkers that could aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of neurological and ophthalmic disorders based on pupillary behaviour.

The project will be conducted at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, with anticipated collaboration with CEITEC MU and St. Anne’s University Hospital Brno.

Your task:

  • Development of chromatic pupillometer, protocol design, data acquisition, interaction with ophthalmologists.
  • Signal and data analysis, biomarker identification.
  • Implementation of chromatic pupillometry to MR acquisition.
  • Scientific publishing.

Requirements:

  • Master’s degree in a relevant field, e.g. computer science, biomedical engineering.
  • Programming skills, preferably Python, MATLAB, or C++.
  • Familiarity with image processing techniques, experiences with basic electronics or machine vision setups.
  • Good communication skills in English.
  • A keen interest in ophthalmological research.

We offer:

  • Collaboration within an active and highly interdisciplinary team.
  • Friendly and supportive research environment.
  • Additional financial support beyond the state scholarship through supplementary stipends or project-related funding.
  • Opportunities for professional development, including participation in international conferences, workshops, and specialized training.

Relevant publications:
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1295129
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00417-016-3351-9

How to apply:

Please apply and submit your motivation letter and CV via university website from April 1 to April 30, https://www.vut.cz/eprihlaska/cs/zadani/vybrat-obor/fakulta/5

Funding:
Funding is provided as a combination of part-time or full-time research projects and/or regular scholarships.

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