RF Plasma Polymerisation and thin films

RF Plasma Polymerisation and thin films

Advisor/s

A/Prof Ulf Schmitz, Dr Daniel Xing, Prof Andreas Lopata

College or Research Centre

College of Medicine & Dentistry; College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Science

Summary of Project

Join our dynamic research team at JCU and the Townsville Cancer Centre (TCC) for an exciting HDR (Higher Degree by Research) project that merges cutting-edge technology with critical clinical applications. Our umbrella project encompasses two groundbreaking research initiatives aimed at improving cancer treatment outcomes and patient care. Project 1: Enhancing Glioblastoma Treatment with Magnetic Resonance and Radiotherapy Glioblastoma (GBM) remains one of the most aggressive brain cancers, with limited survival rates despite recent advances in treatment. Our research focuses on the novel application of tumour treating fields and the integration of a magnetic resonance linear accelerator (MRL) to explore the biological effects of combining magnetic fields with ionizing radiation. We aim to uncover how these combined modalities impact tumour and immune cell interactions, ultimately seeking to improve GBM treatment efficacy. Project 2: Developing Blood-Based Surveillance for HPV-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-OPSCC) presents unique challenges in post-treatment surveillance, particularly for patients in remote regions. Our research aims to develop and validate a blood-based circulating HPV-DNA (cHPV-DNA) test using next-generation sequencing (NGS). This innovative approach will enable earlier detection of recurrent disease, reduce patient burden, and improve survival outcomes for HPV-OPSCC patients.

JCU Electronics Material Lab has an excellent facility to develop Graphene from various renewable carbon sources. The main focus of the research group is to develop plasma polymer thin films from nonconventional organic resources using RF Plasma Polymerisation. The lab possesses different plasma sources such as Radio Frequency and Microwaves. The project involves plasma polymer thin film fabrication, material characterization, design and fabrication of different devices, and developing applications especially for biomedical applications, encapsulation of organic electronic devices.

The project also aims to develop biomaterials and encapsulation layers for biomedical applications.

This project has different components and involves different fields/ academic disciplines such as Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Biomedicine etc. Based on the candidate’s field of study, and research interest, the objectives of the project will be designed.

Key Words

brain cancer; head and neck cancer; radiation oncology; biomarker; bioinformatics next generation sequencing

Would suit an applicant who

We invite motivated students with a passion for oncology, molecular biology, and innovative technology to apply. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to transformative research with the potential to significantly impact patient care and treatment outcomes.

has completed a first-class Honours or a Masters degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Materials Engineering, Physics, Chemistry and related areas.

Updated: 13 May 2022