Development of bioactive orthopaedic cement materials

The widely used bone cement type, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) has many limitations including difficulty in handling, slow setting, shrinkage and heat production, which ultimately reduces the lifetime of the artificial implanted device.

This project aims to develop a novel single-paste material that is hardened on command using light energy to improve mechanical (stronger, with appropriate stiffness), physical (reduced shrinkage and heat generation on setting) and biological (bioactive components) properties compared with PMMA cements. The viscosity will be easily adjusted for numerous applications, ranging from stiff pastes for hip implants to injectable formulations for treatment of spine disorders.

At present, we would only consider applications from prospective students with:
- a good (bio)medical degree, with interests in any of the areas outlined above,
- good command of the English language as outlined in the postgraduate prospectus,
- a source of funding to cover tuition fees and bench fees.

To be considered for this studentship, please send the following documents to [Email Address Removed]:
• A detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.