Characterization of composite materials for the development of orthopedic implants

implant loosening. CUSTOM focuses on combining (1) computational tools that allow patient-specific design, (2) additive manufacturing to realize the custom, complex designs and structures and their further postprocessing to incorporate multi-functionality, and (3) blended in-silico and experimental testing to reduce the burden on experimental testing for certification. In doing so, CUSTOM can address the major failure mechanisms of current shoulder implants and improve their overall functionality and longevity.

This PhD will be part of the Testing phase. Based on the Manufacturing groups of the COSTUM from the material point of view can pose numerous questions about the physical chemical characterization of the used material for shoulder implant. Based on the polymer, the bioglass, the surface functionalization physical chemical characterization is crucial before the in vitro and in vivo application, also time dependent material properties (degradation, fractionation), and some process related properties. Looking at the published data, questions must be raised about whether the current materials are suitable for the purpose.

This research focuses on the characterization and evaluation of the biological applicability of advanced composite materials designed for long-term orthopedic implant applications. The work involves detailed physico-chemical analyses, including Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), UV-VIS spectroscopy, and mechanical testing to assess stability, particle size, and structural integrity. Instrumental analytical and high-resolution microscopic techniques—such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) microscopy, multiphoton microscopy, and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)—will be applied in collaboration with the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) to obtain comprehensive morphological and surface information.

In vitro biological evaluations will include cytotoxicity assays (MTT or WST) and biocompatibility tests (long-term motility and reactive oxygen species assays) using relevant human and animal cell lines to assess cellular responses and ensure safety. The project involves close collaboration with materials scientists within our institution and the MSCA network, as well as with clinicians, to develop implants that can be safely and effectively integrated into the human body for extended periods.

To complement these studies, a laboratory-based model system will be established to simulate in vivo conditions, enabling real-time monitoring of implant degradation and wear-induced particle release, and facilitating the intracellular tracking of degradation products using advanced microscopy techniques.

The main tasks of the doctoral projects are: (1) To conduct a comprehensive literature review of currently used shoulder implants and potential novel materials, with particular emphasis on bioactive glasses and their surface modifications. (2) To develop a testing plan for the characterization and degradation assessment of available shoulder implant materials, based on the knowledge gaps identified in the literature. (3) To perform in vitro toxicity and biocompatibility testing. (4) To develop and perform long-term biological experiments to investigate implant degradation and wear-induced particle release, as well as to facilitate the intracellular tracking of degradation products.

The project includes two research stays of 3 and 3-4 months. A first secondment (3months) at the University of Nottingham, UK is: the application of bioactive glass and titanate coatings, including bioactivity testing of SBF. The second secondment (3-4 months) the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), Hungary is to investigate the effect of the porosity sizes and shapes on osseointegration.

The ideal candidate is highly motivated, enthusiastic and communicative researcher with a Masters degree in Biomedical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Biology or a closely related field. They have experience with physicochemical characterizations and in vitro studies or are eager to educate themselves on these topics. They have obtained their degree with distinction or the equivalent thereof, and are able to work independently on this PhD project, as well as collaborate with fellow researchers at the Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology the CUSTOM doctoral network, and beyond.

Candidates should have experience with experimental work, and materials characterization techniques (such as FTIR, DLS, microscopes, and so on) and in vitro work (cytotoxicity assays (MTT or WST) and biocompatibility tests (long-term motility and reactive oxygen species assays)).

Applicants should have excellent oral and written English communication skills (TOEFL score of at least 94 or IELTS-score of 7 or higher).

The successful candidate is expected to contribute to education at the Bachelor or Master level (master thesis supervision, teaching of exercise or practical sessions, …)

Specifically for the MSCA doctoral network, there is a requirement that applicants for this position cannot have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Hungary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date. Moreover, applicants cannot have previously obtained a PhD.

We offer:

• A doctoral scholarship (fully funded) and a Ph.D. degree in Medical Sciences if successful.
• A highly specialized doctoral training in an international environment at a top European university, as well as through the MSCA doctoral network CUSTOM.
• Extensive training and networking activities via the MSCA Doctoral Network 'CUSTOM' project, which involves a total of 17 doctoral candidates.
• A living allowance, mobility allowance and, if applicable, family, long-term leave and special needs allowances. A living allowance of 3027.55 EUR (equivalent in HUF with 403 HUF conversion factor) + mobility allowance of 710 EUR (tax-free), and if relevant, a family allowance of 660 EUR (tax-free). The salary and allowances are gross amounts and will be paid in HUF according to Hungarian law.
• The opportunity to participate in research collaborations and international conferences.
• A stepping stone towards future career opportunities in the European R&D sectors.
• Budapest, the capital of Hungary, with its stunning landscape and rich architectural and historical heritage, offers a unique combination of diverse cultural backgrounds, fine cuisine and wide array of leisurely activities. Semmelweis University is the oldest medical university in Hungary in the field of biomedical sciences. The university is built on the trinity of education, research & innovation, and health care, making it an internationally renowned center of excellence. Our university is a leading higher education institution in medical and health sciences at an international level. It has a truly multicultural community with a vibrant student life in the heart of Europe.

To apply, please send your CV and a motivation letter demonstrating your commitment to the CUSTOM project.

For more information please contact Dr. Angela Jedlovszky-Hajdu, tel.: +36 20 666 3040, mail: hajdu.angela@semmelweis.hu.

Where to apply

E-mail: hajdu.angela@semmelweis.hu

Requirements

Research Field: All

Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent

Languages: ENGLISH

Level: Excellent

Research Field: All

Additional Information

Benefits

We offer:

• A doctoral scholarship (fully funded) and a Ph.D. degree in Mechanical Engineering Sciences if successful.
• A highly specialized doctoral training in an international environment at a top European university, as well as through the MSCA doctoral network CUSTOM.
• Extensive training and networking activities via the MSCA Doctoral Network 'CUSTOM' project, which involves a total of 17 doctoral candidates.
• A living allowance, mobility allowance and, if applicable, family, long-term leave and special needs allowances.
• The opportunity to participate in research collaborations and international conferences.
• A stepping stone towards future career opportunities in the European R&D sectors.
• A stay in a vibrant environment in the heart of Europe. Semmelweis University is the oldest medical university in Hungary in the field of biomedical sciences. The university is built on the trinity of education, research & innovation, and health care, making it an internationally renowned center of excellence. Our university is a leading higher education institution in medical and health sciences at an international level. It has a truly multicultural community with a vibrant student life.

Eligibility criteria

• The ideal candidate is highly motivated, enthusiastic and communicative researcher with a Masters degree in Biomedical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Biology or a closely related field. They have experience with physicochemical characterization (such as FTIR, DLS, microscopes, and so on) and in vitro work (cytotoxicity assays (MTT or WST) and biocompatibility tests (long-term motility and reactive oxygen species assays)). They have obtained their degree with distinction or the equivalent thereof, and are able to work independently on this PhD project, as well as collaborate with fellow researchers at the Department of Polymer Engineering, the CUSTOM doctoral network, and beyond.
• Candidates should have experience with experimental work, and materials characterization techniques (mechanical testing, microscopy, …) and also cell experiments (cytotoxicity, motility assays, migration, proliferation studies and so on).
• Applicants should have excellent oral and written English communication skills (TOEFL score of at least 94 or IELTS-score of 7 or higher).
• The successful candidate is expected to contribute to education at the Bachelor or Master level (master thesis supervision, teaching of exercise or practical sessions, …)
• Specifically for the MSCA doctoral network, there is a requirement that applicants for this position cannot have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Hungary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date. Moreover, applicants cannot have previously obtained a PhD.

Selection process

Based on the CV, motivation letter and online interview. For more information please contact Dr. Angela Jedlovszky-Hajdu, tel.: +36 20 666 3040, mail: hajdu.angela@semmelweis.hu.

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available: 1

Company/Institute: Semmelweis University

Country: Hungary

City: Budapest

Postal Code: 1089

Street: Nagyvarad ter 4

Contact

City: Budapest

Website: https://semmelweis.hu/

Street: Nagyvárad tér 4

Postal Code: 1089

E-Mail: hajdu.angela@semmelweis.hu

Phone: +36206663040