Supervisory Team: Dr. Richard Cook, Dr. Katy Rankin, Dr. Patricia Goggin, Dr. Behrad Mahmoodi (Haleon)
Project description
Dental hypersensitivity affects 33% of the adult population and is characterised as a sharp dental pain resulting from chemical, thermal, tactile or osmotic stimuli applied to the teeth. This project will be in collaboration with Haleon and will focus on the prevention and treatment of dental hypersensitivity.
The project will use the latest serial block-face scanning electron microscopy to generate 3D visualisations of the structure of dentine to enhance our understanding of the structure function relationship in the tissue and its influence on the painful stimuli suffered by dental hypersensitivity sufferers. Aligned to this will be the development and efficacy testing of a novel sensitivity paste formulation which combines two active ingredients. By combining the ingredients and understanding their interaction and reaction products the project will aim to generate a positive synergistic effect to more rapidly provide hypersensitivity relief to the patient and enhance the long term protection and prevention it provides.
The project will provide the candidate with the opportunity to learn a range of experimental techniques and analysis methods, including but not limited to serial block face scanning electron microscopy, nanoindentation, x-ray diffraction and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. In addition the candidate will get the opportunity to spend an extended period embedded within the oral health research and development team at Haleon, to provide a unique insight into paste development, formulation and production as well as the steps and processes involved in taking a product to market.
If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr. Richard Cook, nCATS Research Group, Email: [Email Address Removed], Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 2164.
Entry Requirements
A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).
Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2023 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.
Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £21,622 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.
How To Apply
Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), 2023/24, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Dr. Richard Cook
Applications should include:
Research Proposal
Curriculum Vitae
Two reference letters
Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date
For further information please contact: [Email Address Removed]
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.