Validation of Structured Light Plethysmography in the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Dysfunctional Breathing

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Dysfunctional Breathing or Breathing Pattern Disorder is a commonly health condition that proves to be difficult to diagnose and monitor. Undiagnosed individuals commonly present with disproportionate breathlessness and poor quality of life. However, there is no gold standard diagnostic and monitoring technique available. A novel technique, known as Structured Light Plethysmography, which measures changes in the tidal breathing pattern by measuring chest and abdominal wall movements, has been recently developed. This innovative device (Thora-3Di®), manufactured by PneumaCare Ltd., has been CE marked and will be used in this project.

This studentship will assess and compare Structured Light Plethysmography (Thora-3Di®) outputs of chest wall movement with the current standard practice lung function tests offered to patients with Breathing Pattern Disorder. We will assess the feasibility and validity of using Thora-3Di® device in the primary or secondary care setting to help identify abnormal breathing patterns associated with Dysfunctional Breathing or Breathing Pattern Disorder.

Project aims and objectives

The aim of this project is to

• Identify and characterise the tidal breathing Structured Light Plethysmography parameters in patients diagnosed with Dysfunctional Breathing /Breathing Pattern Disorder
• Compare and examine the difference in the pattern of breathing between healthy controls and participants with Breathing Pattern Disorder
• Examine the relationship between the Structured Light Plethysmography outputs and breathlessness assessment tools and direct observation of chest movement by clinical specialists.

Our objectives are to:

• Undertake a Clinical Trial to validate the Thora-3Di® against standard practice in patients who are undergoing investigation for disproportionate breathlessness. The core methodology involves capturing data during a short period of measurement of breathing using Structured Light Plethysmography at rest and after exertion.
• Identify and characterise the tidal breathing Structured Light Plethysmography parameters using PneumaView 3D software in patients diagnosed with Dysfunctional Breathing/Breathing Pattern Disorder and healthy controls.
• Assess the cost-effectiveness of introducing the Thora-3Di® device in the primary or secondary NHS care setting to help identify abnormal breathing patterns associated with Dysfunctional Breathing.

Funding

The student will be in receipt of an annual stipend payment between £36,000 and £41,000, depending on qualifications and experience (with a yearly increment). Please note, a stipend is not considered taxable income.

Only Home students can apply. Home fees are covered. 

Specific requirements of the candidate

Essential

• MSc in Physiotherapy.
• Licensed NHS Physiotherapist.
• Experience in the management of breathing pattern disorders.
• NHS experience working with clinical populations.
• Proficient in Microsoft office, specifically Microsoft excel.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr. Azmy Faisal (azmy.faisal@mmu.ac.uk) for an informal discussion.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Sport and Exercise Science or download the PGR application form.

You should also complete the Narrative CV form addressing the project’s aims and objectives, demonstrating how the skills you have maps to the area of research, how your experience makes you suitable for this position, and why you see this area as being of importance and interest. 

If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section, or email the application form and statement to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk.

Expected start date: October 2025.

Please quote the reference: SciEng-AF-2025-Dysfunctional Breathing

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