Enabling Safer and More Sustainable Reprocessing of Reusable Medical Devices

About the Project

Are you interested in pursuing a PhD at the interface of chemical engineering, materials science, and microbiology at the University of Edinburgh? We are seeking a talented, motivated, and curious PhD student to develop innovative strategies for the safe and sustainable reprocessing of reusable medical devices.

Reusable medical devices are central to modern healthcare. Their use reduces costs for healthcare systems such as the NHS and minimises environmental impact compared to single-use alternatives. However, their safe reuse depends critically on effective decontamination. While cleaning removes visible contamination, disinfection targets microscopic pathogens from previous patients. These microorganisms often exist as complex, highly resistant biofilm communities that are difficult to eradicate. Current reprocessing methods rely on aggressive physical and chemical treatments, which can unintentionally damage device surfaces. This can lead to microplastic release, as well as the formation of microcracks and surface grooves that promote further bacterial adhesion and resistance.

This project addresses a key challenge: How can we effectively disinfect reusable medical devices without degrading materials or promoting microbial attachment? You will work with a custom-built laboratory system to simulate decontamination processes in a controlled manner.

This will enable you to:

• Investigate how different cleaning conditions influence surface degradation and microplastic release
• Grow and analyse biofilms on treated surfaces using advanced microscopy techniques
• Explore whether engineered surface patterns can reduce microbial attachment
• Develop and test surface functionalisation strategies to inhibit biofilm formation

This interdisciplinary project combines experimentation, surface engineering, and microbiological analysis. You will also collaborate with leading UK medical device reprocessing companies, ensuring strong real-world impact.