This Research & Innovation Doctoral Project brief summarises our priority areas of research interest under the heading of: Digital healthcare interfaces: Co-designing a patient and clinician led digital service to enable remote body geometry data capture for orthotic services and solutions.
We welcome all research degree applications aligned with and in response to this brief.

Applications open for September 2023
Apply nowProject brief details
Digital Healthcare is changing the way we interact and access health and wellbeing services. Developments from NHS Digital such as the NHS app are an example of how smart devices and digital services are becoming central to a more effective and joined up experience for patients. However, Digital Health innovations have mainly targeted the digitisation of patient data, traditionally kept in paper copies. Further innovations in the health monitoring space have enabled the use of wearable technologies to improve monitoring and patient care in areas such as diabetes, oxygen saturation and stress.
There is a need for further enhanced digital healthcare services as the capabilities of smart mobile devices and communication technology expand. Rural areas of the country such as Cornwall need a broader range of remote services to facilitate access and innovation in care.
This doctoral project develops on existing research that utilises 3D scanning technology to capture patient geometry and aid the creation of bespoke orthoses. The researcher will be supported by RCHT's Innovation Consultant to study clinicians and patients of orthotic services through co-design methods.
This research will inform the development of a prototype service design solution that enables the remote data capture and sharing of body geometry in order to improve patient care and experience.
Strategic alignment
Projects deriving from this brief are expected to sit within the following Research & Innovation programme and department:
Programme | Design for Health and Wellbeing |
---|---|
Department | School of Architectures, Design & Interiors |
As successful research degree project proposals must emphasise a clear alignment between the project idea and one or more of our Research & Innovation programmes, we recommend that you review details of the programme aligned to this brief before you complete the application process.
Project brief lead

Drummond Masterton
Head of Architecture and Design
Drummond trained as a 3D designer, at Grays School of Art, Aberdeen and at postgraduate level at the...

Anna Mankee-Williams
Associate Professor, Arts and Health
Anna is an Associate Professor in Arts and Health. Anna has 22 years’ experience in the health sec...
How to apply
Enquiries
Project brief & project proposal enquiries
To discuss this project brief, ideas or project proposal responding to this brief, please contact: Drummon Masterton.
Application enquiries
For all other application related enquires please contact the Research & Development team.
T: 01326 255831
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