Skip to main content

Development of a biocompatible and bioabsorbable auxetic metamaterial for bone fixation

Funding
Funded
Study mode
Full-time
Part-time
Apply by
Start date
Subject area
Engineering
Change country or region

We’re currently showing entry requirements and other information for applicants with qualifications from United Kingdom.

Please select from our list of commonly chosen countries below or choose your own.

If your country or region isn’t listed here, please contact us with any questions about studying with us.

Overview

This project aim to develop a new architected material as implants with superior biomechanical properties, serving as an alternative to traditional bone fixation technologies using biocompatible materials.

About this opportunity

This project aims to develop a novel architected (metamaterial) structure with enhanced biomechanical performance for use as an alternative to conventional bone fixation technologies. The proposed fixation system will utilise biocompatible and potentially bioresorbable materials to improve patient outcomes and reduce long-term complications associated with traditional implants. The objectives are:

  • To design architected material using both computational and experimental methods.
  • To identify suitable manufacturing techniques (e.g., additive manufacturing) for fabricating prototypes.
  • To evaluate biomechanical performance of the developed prototypes compared to standard bone screws.

To assess the feasibility of the prototypes for clinical translation the PhD candidate will collaborate with the project’s industry partner, including preliminary regulatory considerations and market analysis.

The project will employ a combined computational, mathematical and experimental approach to progress through iterative stages of design, fabrication, and mechanical characterisation. Suitable biomaterial will be used to fabricate and test the fixations. Finite element simulations and mathematical models will guide design iterations, followed by mechanical testing, including in vitro investigations, under simulated physiological conditions.

Back to top

Who is this for?

Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a Master’s Degree or equivalent from a reputable University in an appropriate field of Engineering. Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field will also be considered.

Back to top

How to apply

  1. 1. Contact supervisors

    Dr Rosti Readioff rosti.readioff@liverpool.ac.uk https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/people/rosti-readioff
    Dr Richard Potter rjpott@liverpool.ac.uk https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/people/richard-potter
  2. 2. Prepare your application documents

    Candidates wishing to apply should complete the University of Liverpool application form [How to apply for a PhD – University of Liverpool] applying for a PhD in Materials Engineering and uploading: Degree Certificates & Transcripts, an up-to-date CV, a covering letter/personal statement and two academic references.

  3. 3. Apply

    Finally, register and apply online. You'll receive an email acknowledgment once you've submitted your application. We'll be in touch with further details about what happens next.

Back to top

Funding your PhD

This is a fully funded PhD studentship, funded by the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award [DLA]. The funding covers tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend for 3.5 years at UKRI rate [for 2025 this is £20,780.00 per annum].  There is a research support element of this grant which is managed by the supervisor which will cover the cost of consumables.

Back to top

Contact us

Have a question about this research opportunity or studying a PhD with us? Please get in touch with us, using the contact details below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Back to top