Investigation into the transmission of mechanical stimuli in cell seeded tissue engineering scaffold materials using finite element modeling

Project Description:

Applications are invited for postgraduate research leading to a PhD degree in Biomedical Engineering, specifically in the area of Biomechanical Modelling.

Biomechanical Modelling has shown great potential for understanding numerous diseases and injuries in the human body, such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, and brain injuries. This understanding is achieved by analyzing local biomechanics and material properties using finite element methods and material testing.

The development and fabrication of new biomaterials for tissue engineering involve various approaches, including material property and structural matching. One of the most crucial requirements is understanding the biomechanics at the implant site. This research focuses on finite element analysis to investigate the stress and strain environments at the implantation site of scaffold implants. This information is vital for designing synthetic implants and cell carriers for tissue engineering.

The project will be conducted at the Institute for BioEngineering (IBioE). Students will acquire skills in finite element modeling, computer-aided design, mechanical property testing, and phantom model creation. These skills will be essential for pursuing industrial careers in the biomechanical modeling sector.

Further Information: 

Minimum entry qualification - To undertake this research, we are seeking a motivated candidate with an honors degree at 2:1 or above in any of these areas, chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, physics, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, synthetic chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related discipline.

Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.

Applications are welcomed from self-funded students, or students who are applying for scholarships from the University of Edinburgh or elsewhere.

Competition funding opportunities available – please enquire

Further information and other funding options.