Project title: High Throughput Ultrasound Parameter Space Mapping and Manipulation Tools for Targeted Ultrasound Neuromodulation
Supervisors: Dr Sophie Morse, Dr Periklis Pantazis, Dr James Choi
Location: Level 1, Bessemer Building, South Kensington, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ
About me
I am a PhD student in the Morse group in the Department of Bioengineering within the UK Dementia Research Institute centre at Imperial College London. My research aims to develop high-throughput and multimodal tools to map how different ultrasound stimulation parameters affect neuronal activity and connectivity. By creating imaging- and electrophysiology-compatible ultrasound systems, I will investigate whether targeted ultrasound can promote neurite outgrowth, synapse formation, and healthier network activity. This work will help clarify the mechanistic potential of ultrasound as a non-invasive therapeutic strategy for brain disorders, including dementia.
I have always been fascinated by how humans learn and think, and this naturally led me to explore ways that we can enhance our cognitive function. When I came across ultrasound neuromodulation, I found the concept immediately compelling, it is like using a 'magic hand' to gently massage the brain. This concept has driven me to into building a strong motivation to understand how ultrasound can promote healthy plasticity and support cognitive resilience, particularly in the context of ageing and dementia.
In my spare time, I am into arts, photography and sports (volleyball is my new passion).
Qualifications
- 6/10/2025-present: PhD in Bioengineering at Imperial College London
- 1/10/2023-1/9/2024: MRes in Neurotechnology at Imperial College London
- 1/9/2019-30/6/2023: BEng in Biomedical Engineering at City University of Hong Kong
Presentations
23rd Annual International Symposium on Therapeutic Ultrasound, Taipei, Taiwan
Poster presentation: In vitro setup for ultrasound modulation
Publications
Chan LYN, Grewal S, Kawara S, Kim J, Choi JJ, Morse SV, Film-based cell culture device and in vitro setup for ultrasound modulation. IEEE Transactions on Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics and Frequency Control, doi: 10.1109/TUFFC.2025.3569498
Contact Details
Email: n.chan23@imperial.ac.uk
LinkedIn: lychan-nicholas
