About the Project
The mechanical properties of plant and animal tissues are strongly influenced by the arrangement of their constituent cells. Mechanical signals are also key determinants of tissue development. Discrete models, in which cells are represented as polygons or polyhedra, provide a popular and powerful theoretical framework for understanding cell and tissue biomechanics. Such models capture features that can be hard to resolve using traditional continuum approaches, such as the origins of…
growth-related stresses. This project involves the development of new mathematical techniques for the analysis of such models, built around discrete operators that respect the underlying geometric organisation of biological tissues.
Drawing on recent findings, the project will combine algebraic, geometric and computational tools to investigate mechanisms of stress generation in proliferating multicellular tissues. The project's primary objectives are (1) to build on an existing discrete exterior calculus [4] for cellular monolayers to identify and exploit multipolar fields associated with geometric defects, with the aim of predicting growth-related stresses; and (2) to extend existing formulations [1-4] from two to three spatial dimensions. The project will combine analytical and computational approaches and will be underpinned by biological expertise and imaging data from the Woolner lab. In addition to direct supervisory support, the student will benefit from 100 hours of specialist taught courses offered within the Department of Mathematics in relevant areas of mathematics.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply: To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Natural Sciences Scholarships. If you don't already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing your motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in Mathematics or a closely related discipline. OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master's degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Mathematics or a closely related discipline.
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
Funding Notes
Funding covers tuition fees, an annual stipend at the UKRI minimum rate (currently £21,805 per year), and a research training support grant of up to £2,500 per year for the full 3.5-year programme.
References
[1] N Cowley, CK Revell et al. (2024) Proceedings A 480 (2297), 20240224
[2] OE Jensen, E Johns et al. (2020) Proceedings A 476: 20190716
[3] OE Jensen & CK Revell (2023) Biomech. Model. Mechanobiol. 22, 1465
[4] OE Jensen & CK Revell (2026) J. Math. Biol. 92: 61