Porous implants fabricated by additive manufactured technology (3D printing) offer a promising avenue for enhancing bone ingrowth and improving clinical outcomes. However, clinical data regarding the optimal implant geometry is currently inconclusive. Because implant integration is intrinsically linked to the quality of the surrounding tissue, understanding time-dependent changes in stress distribution within the bone is vital to inform implant design.
The purpose of this PhD is to investigate key parameters of porous implants to improve bone ingrowth. The student will develop musculoskeletal models and finite element analysis (FEA) models from clinical images and gait analysis data. The student will perform mechanical testing of the implants to validate the FEA models.
The successful candidate will work in a supportive and collaborative environment, with clinicians and strong industrial support, including a placement at an orthopaedic implant manufacturer. The student will join the vibrant multi-disciplinary Integrative Musculoskeletal Biomechanics (IMSB) team, which includes academics, postdoctoral researchers, and PhD students from the Insigneo Institute.
Requirements
We are looking for a self-motivated student who wants to develop new skills and apply their existing knowledge. You should be independent, excited to learn, solve problems, passionate about the subject and creative. In addition, you should:
- Hold a Master's or MEng degree at merit/distinction level, or a first class/upper second (2:1) class honours degree in mechanical engineering or bioengineering.
- Good interpersonal and organisational skills, and the ability to work as a team player.
- Proficiency in Finite Element Analysis software (e.g., Abaqus, Ansys), image processing techniques, and programming languages such as Python and Matlab.
Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Dr Vee San Cheong, to discuss your interest in and suitability for the project prior to submitting your application.
Supervisory team:
Dr Vee San Cheong (primary supervisor) is a UKRI Future Research Leaders Fellow with expertise in developing novel methods to study bone biomechanics. In collaboration with researchers and surgeons based at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) and Insigneo Institute, she has been studying bone mechanics using innovative X-ray imaging techniques and FEA in the context of boneremodelling to predict the effect of implant design, drugs and exercise on bone adaptation.
Prof Paul Fromme (UCL) has extensive experience and publication track record in applied mechanics and ultrasound. Building on ongoing clinical trials at the RNOH, he has been using innovative ultrasound techniques and FEA to evaluate bone growth around bone- anchored limb prostheses, which offer superior gait and joint function compared with prosthesis.
Dr David Simpson (industrial supervisor) leads the limb salvage service for Adler Ortho UK Ltd and works with orthopaedic surgeons across a range of UK hospitals.
PhD start Date:
01 October 2026 or 1 February 2027
Funding Notes
This studentship will cover the full UK (home) rate and fund an annual tax-free maintenance stipend at the standard UKRI rate (£21,805 in 2026-27) for up to 4 years, as well as a research grant to cover additional costs of training, courses, project costs, conferences and travel.
