Adam Smith
I am a third year PhD student at the Mathematics for Real-World Systems Centre for Doctoral Training (MathSys II CDT). My interests are predominantly in applied mathematics which mainly include solving ODE/PDE models for biological systems, but have additional experience in machine learning.
My research is in mathematical neuroscience with a specific interest in cortical spreading depression. Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is a slow propagating wave (mm/min) of neuronal depolarisation followed by electrical silencing. The wave causes loss of ion homeostasis, increased blood flow and can have negative consequences to effected neural tissue if already damaged. The phenomenon presents itself in a number of neurological diseases with varying consequences, but my focus is its role in migraine and the relationship with its seizure activity. The relationship CSD has with seizure and epileptiform activity seems complex, with some studies describe it to have an anti-seizure role whereas other believe it facilitates increased excitability and seizure susceptibility.
In my project, I apply a number of different computational and mathematical techniques. Whilst I have played a huge part in processing a large experimental data set, I have developed an array of novel analysis techniques to explore the patterns in fluorescent calcium imaging of mice brain during induced epilepsy. In this state, the mice develop multiple CSD waves along with the generalised seizures characteristic of the epilepsy model. I have developed a novel computational pipeline that allows us to answer important questions about the role CSD might play in epilepsy. Also, I have developed an existing model for calcium fluorescence to support our analysis.
Understanding the relationship between seizures and CSD will undoubtedly help with identification of new therapeutic targets for both epilepsy and migraine. I aim to conduct a number of mathematical studies to begin understanding this relationship and explain experimental data. The project is supervised by Professor Yulia Timofeeva (Computer Science, University of Warwick) and Professor Kirill Volynski (UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology) and in collaboration with clinical colleagues at National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (Professor Dimitri Kullmann).
Research Projects
MSc Individual Project (2020) - Kinetochore Tracking with Machine Learning
- Developed an automated algorithm for the detection of kinetochore in 3D time-lapse data using machine learning that improved on existing software.
- Supervised by Dr Jonathan Harrison and Professor Nigel BurroughsLink opens in a new window with data from the McAinsh labLink opens in a new window.
MSc Research Group Project (2020) - Using Generative Adversarial Networks to create multi-channel images of cells undergoing macropinocytosis
- Evaluated various generative architectures to learn the mapping between a reference protein marker and several secondary proteins within a cell, enabling us to map the spatio-temporal order of actin recruitment within it.
- Other group members were Nayef Shkeir and Dan CatchpoleLink opens in a new window.
- Supervised by Dr Till BretschneiderLink opens in a new window with data from 3iLink opens in a new window.
Education
2020- : PhD in Mathematics for Real-World Systems, University of Warwick
2019-20: MSc in Mathematics for Real-World Systems, University of Warwick (Distinction)
2015-19: MMath in Applied Mathematics, University of Nottingham (First Class Honours)
Contact
Office D1.13, Zeeman Building
Extra-Curricular
- Outdoor Bowls, trialled for England Junior team and play for the Warwickshire senior team
- Darts, Ex-President and Ex-Captain for University of Notts Darts Team, also currently play for University of Warwick.