3D Bioprinting in combination with 3D nanoprinting for novel tissue engineering

Self-funded students are welcome to apply for a PhD in 3D bioprinting. 3D printing bio-materials and cells is revolutionizing tissue engineering and drug discovery. 3D bioprinting of living tissues can be applied to address the need for organs transplantation, or these tissues can be used to speed up drug discovery. Materials required for 3D bio-printing of tissues remain a challenge for the researchers. Another constraint related to this process is to produce vascularized cellular structure to generate organs using 3D printing. The vascular system is a network of channels capable of delivering oxygen, and nutrients. These vessels vary in diameter and length. The inner structure of these vessels is also unique. The combination of electrospinning with 3D printing technology opens new pathways for nano- and microfabrication, which can be applied to solve the challenges of conventional bio-printing. This project will investigate the production of controlled shapes using different polymers at different temperatures. The effect of charging using different polymers with a variety of additives will be tested. The temperature and humidity control will be crucial, as the 3D nanosctructures are formed in a drying process. The fabricated nanostructed objects will be investigated for medical applications.

Please apply only if have IELTS 6.5 or above. TOEFL above 100 points are also accepted.

Minimum entry qualification – a First Class degree (or International equivalent) in materials science, chemical engineering or physics discipline, possibly supported by an MSc degree. Experience in nanotechnology and their characterization techniques is a plus, but not essential. Experience with CAD software is essential. Only UK/EU citizens are eligible to apply.