Tissue engineering of cartilage scaffolds for the treatment of osteoarthritis

Applications are invited for postgraduate research leading to a PhD degree in Biomedical Engineering within the subject area of Tissue Engineering.

Tissue engineering has shown great potential in the treatment and understanding of a large number of degenerative ailments, including osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease, through the design of biological scaffolds using both synthetic biodegradable polyesters and naturally occurring extracellular matrix materials.

With the increased prevalence of osteoarthritis in the elderly population there is a need to development more effective solutions and treatments. This research focuses on the development and enhancement of polymer based tissue engineered cartilage scaffolds.

The project will be carried out at the Institute for BioEngineering (IBioE). The student will attain skills in biomaterial design, fabrication, characterisation and cell culture, using techniques such as; Scanning electron microscopy, Nano-indentation, mechanical property testing, ELISA and real time-RT-PCR etc. These skills will be essential for a student perusing industrial careers in the biomedical sector; in addition they will be important for an academic career in Tissue Engineering/Biomedical Engineering.

Further Information: 

Dr. Callanan - Google Scholar Profile

Dr. Callanan - Edinburgh University Profile

The University of Edinburgh is committed to equality of opportunity for all its staff and students, and promotes a culture of inclusivity. Please see details here: https://www.ed.ac.uk/equality-diversity

Closing Date: 

Friday, February 25, 2022

Principal Supervisor: 

Eligibility: 

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, possibly supported by an MSc Degree.

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

Funding: 

Applications are welcomed from self-funded students, or students who are applying for scholarships from the University of Edinburgh or elsewhere.  Competition funding opportunities also available – please enquire.

Further information and other funding options.

Informal Enquiries: