Offer Description The University of Huddersfield is seeking an ambitious and highly motivated doctoral researcher to join a prestigious Marie
Skłodowska-Curie doctoral programme which is part of the MSCA project MicroMan4Health, focused on advancing the next generation of orthopaedic implant technologies. Polymeric biomaterials such as Polyether-Ether-Ketone (PEEK) have become well established in clinical applications including spinal and trauma implants due to their exceptional biocompatibility, favourable mechanical properties, and radiolucency. Despite this success, their application in broader orthopaedic devices, particularly total joint replacements, remains relatively underexplored. Recent advances in additive manufacturing present new opportunities to design and fabricate patient-centred orthopaedic implants with optimised functional surfaces. However, the relationship between surface topography, implant fixation, and infection control remains poorly understood, representing a significant barrier to wider clinical adoption. This PhD project will investigate how engineered surface features on additively manufactured polymeric implants influence biological performance, with particular emphasis on promoting secure bone fixation while simultaneously reducing bacterial colonisation. The outcomes will contribute to the development of next-generation polymeric total knee replacement technologies with enhanced clinical performance and longevity. Where to apply Website: https://www.hud.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/research-scholarships/schoolofcomputingandengineering-fullyfundedscholarships/marie-curie-doctoral-candidate-opportunity/ Requirements Research Field: Engineering Education Level: Undergraduate Skills/Qualifications We are seeking candidates with a strong academic background in one or more of the following disciplines: Mechanical Engineering Manufacturing Engineering Biomedical Engineering Materials Science and Engineering Biomaterials Medical Engineering Product Design Engineering Related engineering or physical science disciplines Applicants should ideally possess: A First-Class Honours degree (or equivalent). A Master's degree in a relevant field (desirable but not essential depending on prior research experience). An interest in advanced manufacturing, biomaterials, orthopaedics, medical devices, or artificial intelligence. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and spoken English communication abilities. The ability to work effectively within an international and multidisciplinary research environment. Experience in additive manufacturing, surface metrology, biomaterials, machine learning, microbiology, or medical device research would be advantageous but is not essential. Research Field: Engineering Work Location(s) Number of offers available: 1 Company/Institute: University of Huddersfield Country: United Kingdom City: Huddersfield Postal Code: HD1 3DH Contact City: Huddersfield Website: https://www.hud.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/research-scholarships/schoolofcomputingandengineering-fullyfundedscholarships/marie-curie-doctoral-candidate-opportunity/ Street: University of Huddersfield Postal Code: HD1 3DH E-Mail: pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk; p.j.bills@hud.ac.uk
