About the project
This project will develop AI-assisted vibrational spectroscopy for early cancer detection using circulating tumour DNA (ct-DNA), epigenetic markers and microRNA (miRNA). Combining Mid-IR and Raman spectroscopy with innovative on-chip photonic devices and machine learning, the research aims to enable sensitive, non-invasive biomarker detection and precise cancer characterisation.
Cancer remains one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide and is associated with a high mortality rate, with only around 50% of patients surviving 10 years, largely because many cancers are diagnosed at a late stage. Although significant advances have been made in early cancer detection, current assays remain largely experimental, are often expensive, and can suffer from limited sensitivity and specificity. We have recently demonstrated that vibrational spectroscopy, including Mid-IR and Raman spectroscopy, can quantify DNA fragment lengths and epigenetic modifications, both of which are effective markers of cancer.
This project will advance cancer diagnostics using vibrational spectroscopy, with a particular focus on novel biomarkers including circulating tumour DNA (ct-DNA), epigenetic markers, and microRNA (miRNA). Using infrared and Raman spectroscopy, the project will investigate the unique vibrational profiles associated with these biomolecules in biological samples. An innovative on-chip photonic device platform that we have recently developed will be used to enhance the sensitivity and precision of biomarker detection.
The project will integrate machine learning with vibrational spectroscopy to develop computational models for the identification, classification, and prediction of cancer based on these specific biomarkers. The anticipated outcomes include a robust platform for vibrational spectroscopy-based biomarker detection, providing a significant step towards personalised cancer diagnostics through non-invasive and real-time assessment of ct-DNA, epigenetic markers, and miRNA expression. This research has the potential to transform cancer diagnosis by enabling earlier detection and more precise characterisation of cancer subtypes.
The School of Optoelectronics (ORC) is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
