PhD Studentship: Next Generation of Medical Device Interfaces Through Advanced Biotribology

We are offering an exciting PhD position, funded by Abbott DBC, that delves into the cutting-edge field of biotribology (friction and lubrication) to redefine the compatibility and functionality of medical devices (MDs) at soft biological interfaces. This opportunity is based at a leading UK research group at the University of Birmingham equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to developing future leaders in healthcare technology.

The project aims to disrupt traditional approaches to medical device biocompatibility by focusing on bio-tribological interactions. Chronic inflammatory responses to implanted MDs pose a significant healthcare challenge, exacerbated by technological advancements and a growing global market projected to reach approximately $719 billion by 2029. This project will tackle these challenges through innovative research on the dynamic biological interfaces, leveraging novel soft matter biotribological and bespoke measurement methodologies.

The PhD will explore the dynamics of fragile and reactive biological interfaces using state-of-the-art in-situ techniques, aiming to balance the fragility and durability of biotribological systems. Key objectives include:

• Developing new biotribological instruments with real-time sensing and imaging capabilities.
• Creating advanced cellular models to simulate mechanical and biochemical interactions at MD-biology interfaces.
• Designing durable material interfaces that reduce adverse biotribological effects and inflammatory responses.

This research is driven by the urgent need to rethink medical device interface design, integrating insights from natural tissue lubrication and degradation mechanisms. The fellowship will leverage bespoke bio-tribological instrumentation for real-time analysis and employ computational discovery to innovate MDs that are durable, less invasive, and more compatible with human tissues.

The successful candidate will contribute to a project with profound implications for global healthcare technologies, reducing the disease burden and enhancing the quality of life through advanced medical devices. You will also have the opportunity to engage with a global company who current provide technological solutions for people living with diabetes.

We seek a highly motivated graduate with a background in engineering, materials science, or a related field, eager to engage in multidisciplinary research. The ideal candidate will have a keen interest in the interface of biology and engineering, with a passion for developing practical solutions to complex problems.

Interested candidates should prepare a detailed research proposal based on the objectives outlined above and submit it along with their academic CV. Applications are open until the position is filled, with a start date aimed for the upcoming academic year.

This PhD opportunity not only promises a challenging and rewarding research journey but also a potential stepping stone to a significant career in both academia and industry, tackling some of the most pressing issues in medical device development today.

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