“The eye is a vital organ for our sense of vision, but there are currently no established in-vitro models for the anterior eye (including the transparent window to the eye [the cornea], and the crystalline lens which allows us to focus at different distances when we are young). This fully funded PhD project will optimise a mechanical holder to mount porcine eyes (a waste project of meat production), a fluid pump mechanism to circulate biological fluids which can maintain the physiology of these tissues for 7-10 days, and the mechatronics to simulate blinking and the muscle contraction that controls eye focus (see video https://aston.box.com/s/w0ll4tn1psav87bwj2w45oza9edn39d0). The PhD student will work as part of a multidisciplinary team including mechanical and electrical engineers, clinicians and surgeons to investigate the biological effects of contact lens and surgical implantation of intraocular lenses following cataract surgery and how optimal vision can be restored. They will also benefit from networking and training within the EPSRC – SFI centre for Doctoral Training in Engineered Tissues for Discovery, Industry and Medicine (LIFETIME) Additional projects will include accelerating the ageing of the crystalline lens, such as through growth hormones and microwaves, to simulate fibrotic changes with time.
Funding and eligibility:
Fully funded studentships are available at the UK home rate only:
- UK Home studentship – “UK nationals will have their PhD fees fully covered. Other candidates will be considered if they can cover the difference in fees between the international and UK rate, proof of this must be included at application stage.
- Stipend: We will provide a four-year stipend of approx. £15,609 per annum
All applicants must have or expect to obtain a first-class degree (2.1 or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline; Physical/Biological Sciences, Engineering, or other relevant disciplines.
How to apply:
Applications must be submitted through the University of Glasgow online system for session 2021/22. Application deadline is 18th July 2021.
All candidates will be required to submit:
- Cover letter (The system will request a research proposal but this is not required. Please submit a cover letter instead) – On your cover letter please state your preferred university and top three project choices, if projects are available at the time of application.
- CV
- Two references
- Transcript/degree certificates
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