This research opportunity invites self-funded PhD candidates to develop advanced deblurring techniques for retinal images using deep learning and variational methods.

Retinal images often suffer from motion blur, defocus, and imaging artefacts, which hinder accurate diagnosis. This project aims to restore image clarity by designing intelligent algorithms that recover fine anatomical details. The enhanced image quality will support earlier and more reliable detection of eye diseases. Combining artificial intelligence with mathematical modelling, this non-invasive, cost-effective approach has the potential to transform clinical ophthalmology, offering improved diagnostic capabilities and deeper insights into the structural integrity of the retina.

At a glance

  • Application deadline03 Dec 2025
  • Award type(s)PhD
  • Start date26 Jan 2026
  • Duration of award3.5 years
  • EligibilityUK, EU, Rest of world
  • Reference numberSATM579

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline.

Funding

This is a self funded opportunity. Find out more about fees here.

Diversity and Inclusion at Cranfield

We are committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in our CDT program, and warmly encourage applications from students of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. We particularly welcome students with disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, and those who identify with diverse ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses. Cranfield strives to provide an accessible and inclusive environment to enable all doctoral candidates to thrive and achieve their full potential. 

At Cranfield, we value our diverse staff and student community and maintain a culture where everyone can work and study together harmoniously with dignity and respect. This is reflected in our University values of ambition, impact, respect and community. We welcome students and staff from all backgrounds from over 100 countries and support our staff and students to realise their full potential, from academic achievement to mental and physical wellbeing. 

We are committed to progressing the diversity and inclusion agenda, for example; gender diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through our Athena SWAN Bronze award and action plan, we are members of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) and Working Families, and sponsors of International Women in Engineering Day. We are also Disability Confident Level 1 Employers and members of the Business Disability Forum and Stonewall University Champions Programme. 

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

How to apply

For further information please contact:

Name: Dr Barmak Honarvar Shakibaei Asli
 Email: barmak@cranfield.ac.uk

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received. Therefore, we encourage early submission, as the position may be filled before the stated deadline.