About the Project
Medical Research Scotland
PhD Studentship Award
This project is one of 13 four year PhD Studentships funded by Medical Research Scotland (http://www.medicalresearchscotland.org.uk) to be delivered jointly by the named University and Company. The Studentship will provide the first-class academic and commercial training needed to equip the successful candidate for a science career in an increasingly competitive market.
"Development of novel bio-inks for 3D printed bone graft" to be delivered by the University of Glasgow [Supervisors: Professor Manuel Salmeron-Sanchez (Division of Biomedical Engineering) and Professor Matthew Dalby (Institute of Infection, Immunity & Inflammation)] and BiogelX Ltd (http://biogelx.com) [Company supervisor: Dr Michael Connolly].
Bone is the second most transplanted tissue behind blood, yet it is typically harvested from the patient themselves, often leaving chronic pain. For this reason, a source of lab grown bone would be preferential. This requires materials which can stimulate stem cells into forming bone. In addition materials will ideally be injectable or compatible with the latest generation of 3D bioprinters, allowing production of custom biological implants.
Hydrogels are of particular interest, allowing incorporation of cells and use as a bio-ink, however these materials require functionalisation with bioactive molecules. BMP-2 is one such growth factor which potently stimulates bone production in mesenchymal stem cells, as studied intensively in our group.
In this project we aim to functionalise a class of synthetic hydrogels for the purposes of developing novel bone graft materials. We will aim to stimulate cultured adult stem cells through addition of bioactive molecules such as fibronectin and BMP-2. We will then seek to test the gel composites for the purposes of 3D bioprinting as a novel bio-ink.
ENQUIRIES:
Enquiries should be sent by email to Professor Manuel Salmeron-Sanchez:
[Email Address Removed]
APPLICATIONS:
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated student who feels comfortable at the interface between engineering and biomedical sciences. The project is highly multidisciplinary and will require developing strategies around the functionalisation of hydrogels, 3D printing and stem cell biology.
Applicants should have a first class degree, or equivalent for degrees obtained outside the UK, in any of the following disciplines: Engineering, Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Medicine and the Life Sciences.
Applicants should direct expressions of interest, including a CV, copy of transcripts, a covering letter explaining why the applicant wishes to carry out this project and two letters of reference (or the contact details of 2 academic references (including email addresses)), by email to Professor Manuel Salmeron-Sanchez:
[Email Address Removed]
before submitting their application online at
https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/engineering/phdopportunities/
Interviews are expected to take place approximately 2-3 weeks after the closing date for applications.
It is anticipated that the PhD Studentship will start in October 2018
When applying, please enter the project title in the programme description box of the application form
Funding Notes
PhD Studentship provides: an annual tax-free stipend of £17,500, increasing to £18,000 over the four years; tuition fees at UK/EU rates only; consumables; and contribution to travel expenses. International fees are not covered.