Advancing animal-free organ-on-a-chip models of arthritis using PeptiMatrix

About the Project

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a three-dimensional (3D), bioactive, instructive network that regulates cell behaviour through biochemical and biophysical cues. The ECM plays a crucial role in musculoskeletal (MSK) tissue development, function and dysfunction and should be considered an essential component in the design of Organ-on-a-Chip (OoC) models

Paradoxically, given the animal replacement potential of OoC, many of the hydrogels that are currently used to mimic the 3D ECM in MSK OoC systems are still animal-derived e.g. Matrigel™ and collagen type 1. This therefore represents a significant, but largely overlooked, source of animal use that necessitates replacement. In addition, animal-derived hydrogels are ill-defined, poorly-customisable, prone to batch-to-batch variability, and demonstrate insufficient mechanical properties. There is an urgent need for new, characterised, customisable and animal-free hydrogels for use in OoC models.

This project seeks to address this requirement using PeptiMatrix™, a fully synthetic and customisable peptide hydrogel platform designed for 3D cell culture. PeptiMatrix™ is available in a range of different stiffnesses, and with a range of functional augmentations. This studentship will evaluate the feasibility of using these formulations in a number of different OoC systems (Emulate, MIMETAS, BiomimX), and to model a number of MSK tissues (synovium, cartilage, bone). The project will assess the ability of these gels to maintain MSK cell viability and phenotype, transmit mechanical strain and ultimately to generate physiologically-relevant, engineered MSK tissues within OoC.

With technical and strategic consultancy provided by the PeptiMatrix™ team, this project could re-define 3D tissue microenvironments within MSK OoC. In addition, the applicability of these new materials and methodologies will not be limited to MSK tissues and has the potential for wide reaching impact across the OoC field.

This project is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Next Generation Organ on a Chip Technology (COaCT)

Who should apply?

We are looking for students who have an enthusiasm for organ-on-a-chip technologies, with a range of backgrounds including biology, biochemistry, genetics, materials science, biomedical engineering and other related subjects. Students should have some experimental background and enthusiasm for working in the laboratory. Applicants are not expected to have experience in all elements of this field; training will be provided as part of the PhD to support the development of important skills.

Application Process

Applications for this project are through the COaCT admissions process. Applicants are asked to make one application to the COaCT and list their project preferences from all project currently available as listed here: http://www.cpm.qmul.ac.uk/cdt/projects/projects2026open

The process is explained in detail here: http://www.cpm.qmul.ac.uk/cdt/applications/stepbystep

Funding Notes

The successful applicants will be fully funded (fees and stipend). For 2026/27, the annual stipend rate, including London Allowance, will be £23,805.