Bioengineering
Advanced electronic/optoelectronic technologies designed to allow stable, intimate integration with living organisms will accelerate progress in biomedical research; they will also serve as the foundations for new approaches in monitoring and treating diseases.
The problem. In the absence of approved treatments, Metabolic dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) - a chronic condition affecting 1 in 3 adults worldwide, remains a major unmet clinical need. Moreover, the financial burden to the NHS is around £10 billion per year. Patients with MASLD accumulate fat droplets within the main cells of the liver (hepatocytes). This can lead to liver cell dysfunction resulting in tissue inflammation, fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. Liver models ‘in-a-dish’ – which mimic the human liver organ in the body - could help accelerate drug discovery and development to treat MASLD. Yet, the lack of understanding of how the disease is established and progresses has resulted in an ad hoc approach in the selection of human-relevant cellular systems when modelling MASLD biology; an approach that hampers bench-to-bedside translational research in MASLD.
Scope. In collaboration with Professor Jonathan Fallowfield (CMVM), Dr Leonard J Nelson and Dr Gareth Sullivan (Occam Biosciences Ltd), this project will create a systematic framework for developing liver organoids that more accurately mimic and elucidate the progression of MASLD. By employing a multidisciplinary approach, the project will identify the most effective disease induction strategies to model the clinical manifestations of MASLD. We will validate these laboratory models by comparing them to patients’ biopsies and testing them with potential anti-fibrotic drugs. The obtained system is set to enhance both drug and disease biomarker discovery for MASLD therapeutics.
Research environment. This PhD project offers an exceptional opportunity to engage with leading experts in bio-engineering and hepatology at the University of Edinburgh. Development and analyses of MASLD in vitro models will be carried out at the Institute for BioEngineering, equipped with state-of-the-art experimental facilities (tissue culture labs, flow cytometry, microscopy, and microfluidic platforms). Collaborative support from specialist research centers will enhance capacities in cell metabolism, drug toxicology, and regenerative medicine. The PhD candidate will receive training in microfluidics, computational methods in biostatistics, and experimental techniques such as organoid culture and single-cell analysis. Through the 2-month collaborative industry placement at Occam Biosciences Ltd, the candidate will also acquire commercial insights and regulatory expertise, ensuring a comprehensive educational and professional experience.
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
https://eng.ed.ac.uk/research/institutes/ibioe https://regeneration-repair.ed.ac.uk/ https://halt-ronin.com/excellence/
Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.
UK students or EU students with settled/pre-settled status who also have 3 years residency in the UK/EEA/Gibraltar/Switzerland immediately before the start of your Programme are eligible to apply.
Applications must be submitted online through the University’s online application system (EUCLID) via the 'Apply Now' link. Please specify you are applying for the MRS-funded PhD Studentship with Principal Supervisor: Dr Lucia Bandiera.
Your application should include a covering letter explaining your motivation for applying for this PhD project, a full Curriculum Vitae and the names and contact details (including email addresses) of at least two academic referees.
Please note, your application may be shared with the funders of this PhD Studentship, Medical Research Scotland and Occam Biosciences Ltd.
Interviews are expected to take place 6 weeks after the closing date for applications.
It is anticipated that the PhD Studentship will start 7 October 2025.
Tuition fees + stipend are available for applicants who qualify as Home applicants (International/Overseas applicants are not eligible)
Home Students:
To qualify as a Home student, you must fulfil one of the following criteria:
•You are a UK student
•You are an EU student with settled/pre-settled status who also has 3 years residency in the UK/EEA/Gibraltar/Switzerland immediately before the start of your Programme. (International students not eligible.)
The use of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as delivery systems has revolutionized biomedical applications, particularly in immunotherapy. LNPs can encapsulate and deliver therapeutic agents such as nucleic acids, proteins, and small molecules, enabling targeted treatment of diseases including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. This PhD project, based at the forefront of immunotherapy research, aims to develop and optimize lipid nanoparticles to enhance their effectiveness as carriers for immunotherapeutic agents, improving immune responses and treatment outcomes.
The key objectives of this research include:
- Designing and Engineering Lipid Nanoparticles: You will develop innovative strategies to engineer lipid nanoparticles with improved stability, biocompatibility, and enhanced delivery capabilities. This includes optimizing the lipid composition, particle size, and surface properties to achieve optimal cellular uptake and targeted delivery to immune cells.
- Encapsulation of Immunotherapeutic Agents: The project will focus on formulating lipid nanoparticles for the encapsulation and controlled release of immunotherapeutic agents such as mRNA vaccines, cytokines, and immune modulators. You will explore novel methods for improving the loading efficiency and bioactivity of these agents.
- Evaluating Immune Response and Efficacy: The candidate will conduct preclinical studies to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of the lipid nanoparticle formulations, assessing their ability to activate immune cells, stimulate desired immune responses, and enhance the therapeutic efficacy of the treatment in various disease models.
- In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation: You will assess the safety, stability, and pharmacokinetics of the lipid nanoparticles in both in vitro cell culture systems and in vivo animal models. A focus will be placed on the nanoparticles' ability to trigger potent immune responses without causing adverse side effects.
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in pharmaceutical sciences, nanotechnology, chemical engineering, or related fields. Experience in nanoparticle formulation, drug delivery systems, or immunology is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will be driven to advance immunotherapy technologies with the potential to make a significant impact on cancer treatment and beyond. Other types of nanoparticles may be considered as well if with unique advantages.
Join us at the cutting edge of immunotherapy research and contribute to the development of next-generation therapeutic systems with transformative potential.
Entry requirement: minimum entry qualification – an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, biomedical engineering, or cell biology.
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
Microfluidic devices are transforming the landscape of disease diagnosis by offering high sensitivity and rapid results. These devices hold immense potential for a wide range of applications, including the swift identification of bacterial infections in patients' biological samples. The ability to quickly detect pathogens allows doctors to prescribe the appropriate antibiotics at the right time, improving treatment outcomes and helping combat the growing problem of antibiotic overuse. Another exciting area of microfluidics is the use of organ-on-a-chip designs, which can revolutionize cancer diagnosis by enabling more precise and personalized medical assessments.
This groundbreaking project, led by the Institute for Bioengineering at the University of Edinburgh, aims to develop innovative microfluidic platforms that enable efficient, rapid, and accurate diagnostics. The research will also explore the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimize the design of microfluidic devices, enhancing their performance and streamlining the diagnostic process. By combining cutting-edge technology with advanced materials science, the project will push the boundaries of medical diagnostics and help shape the future of healthcare.
We are now seeking a highly motivated and talented candidate to undertake this exciting research as part of a dynamic team. The ideal PhD candidate will have a strong background in chemical engineering, materials science, biology, or related fields, with hands-on experience in one or more of these areas. A passion for interdisciplinary research, problem-solving, and innovation is essential, as this project offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of disease diagnostics and healthcare.
If you are driven by curiosity and eager to contribute to pioneering research, we invite you to apply for this PhD opportunity. Join us in advancing the field of microfluidic diagnostics and help us tackle some of the most pressing challenges in modern medicine.
Entry requirement: minimum entry qualification – an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, biomedical engineering, or cell biology.
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
Project Description:
Applications are invited for postgraduate research leading to a PhD degree in Biomedical Engineering, focusing on Biosensor Technologies. Biosensors have shown great potential in understanding and managing various ailments. For example, glucose sensors for diabetes have significantly improved users' quality of life. By designing biological sensors using synthetic and/or electronic systems, we can advance health monitoring worldwide. This research aims to develop technologies that enhance the detection of menstrual disorders, with the potential to monitor health more effectively. The project will be conducted at the Institute for BioEngineering (IBioE). The student will acquire skills in biomaterial design, fabrication, and characterization using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, nano-indentation, mechanical property testing, ELISA, and real-time RT-PCR. These skills are essential for pursuing industrial careers in the biomedical sector and are valuable for an academic career in Biomedical Engineering.
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
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
Project Description:
Applications are invited for postgraduate research leading to a PhD degree in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in Tissue Engineering. Tissue engineering shows great potential in treating and understanding numerous degenerative ailments, including osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease, through the design of biological scaffolds using both synthetic biodegradable polyesters and naturally occurring extracellular matrix materials. This research focuses on developing synthetic-based tissue-engineered liver scaffolds to advance the treatment and understanding of liver disease. The project will be carried out at the Institute for BioEngineering (IBioE). The student will gain skills in biomaterial design, fabrication, characterization, and cell culture, using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, nano-indentation, mechanical property testing, ELISA, and real-time RT-PCR, among others. These skills are essential for pursuing industrial careers in the biomedical sector and important for an academic career in Tissue Engineering/Biomedical Engineering.
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
Project Description:
Applications are invited for postgraduate research leading to a PhD degree in Biomedical Engineering, focusing on Tissue Engineering. Tissue engineering shows great potential in treating and understanding numerous degenerative ailments, including osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease, by designing biological scaffolds using both synthetic biodegradable polyesters and naturally occurring extracellular matrix materials. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, necessitating new research strategies for treatment. This research aims to develop and enhance polymer-based tissue-engineered therapies. The project will be conducted at the Institute for BioEngineering (IBioE). The student will gain skills in biomaterial design, fabrication, characterization, and cell culture, using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, nano-indentation, mechanical property testing, ELISA, and real-time RT-PCR. These skills are essential for pursuing a career in the biomedical industry and important for an academic career in Tissue Engineering/Biomedical Engineering.
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
Project Description
Applications are invited for a postgraduate research position leading to a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, with a focus on Tissue Engineering.
Tissue engineering holds significant promise for treating and understanding degenerative ailments, such as osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease, by designing biological scaffolds using both synthetic biodegradable polyesters and naturally occurring extracellular matrix materials.
Cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide, and this research aims to develop a tissue-engineered scaffold to assist in cancer treatment. The goal of the project is to create scaffolds that support tumor suppression and microenvironment recovery.
The project will be conducted at the Institute for Bioengineering (IBioE). The student will acquire skills in biomaterial design, fabrication, characterization, and cell culture, utilizing techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, nano-indentation, mechanical property testing, ELISA, and real-time RT-PCR. These skills are essential for pursuing industrial careers in the biomedical sector and are valuable for an academic career in Tissue Engineering/Biomedical Engineering.
Further Information:
Dr. Callanan - Google Scholar Profile
Dr. Callanan - Edinburgh University Profile
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