Smart Implantable and Biomaterial Systems for Targeted Therapy

About the Project

PhD projects aim to develop advanced biomaterial-based and implantable drug delivery systems that address key clinical needs in oncology, urology, and chronic pain management. The research integrates pharmaceutical formulation, polymer science, and engineering to create innovative systems for localised, sustained, and controlled drug release. In oncology, the focus is on developing biodegradable and stimuli-responsive implants for site-specific delivery of chemotherapeutics to solid tumors, improving treatment efficacy and minimising systemic toxicity. In urology, projects will explore multifunctional biomaterials for urinary catheters and ureteral stents designed to release antimicrobials or anti-inflammatory agents, reducing infection, biofilm formation, and encrustation. For chronic pain management, our research investigates implantable systems that can provide localised pain relief, decrease systemic opioid use, and improve post-surgical and chronic pain control. Collectively, our research contributes to the next generation of implantable and indwelling systems that improve patient outcomes across multiple therapeutic indications

Training provided through the research project

Doctoral training will encompass interdisciplinary skills in advanced materials design, pharmaceutical process development, and therapeutic device engineering. Students will gain practical laboratory expertise in hot melt extrusion, additive manufacturing, release kinetics testing, and in vitro biocompatibility evaluation. Complementary training will include translational and regulatory pathways for medical devices and combination products, clinical research principles, and engagement with collaborators from industry and healthcare to ensure clinical applicability.

Expected impact activities

The project will produce novel drug delivery and biomaterial systems with strong translational potential in cancer therapy, urological device innovation, and chronic pain management. Anticipated outcomes include prototype devices with validated release performance and biocompatibility, pre-clinical data supporting regulatory advancement, and collaborative outputs with clinical partners, where relevant. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and active engagement with translational networks to accelerate the path from laboratory innovation to clinical implementation.

Funding Notes

This project is not funded; applications are welcome from self-funding candidates.

References

Implantable drug delivery, oncology, urology, chronic pain, biomaterials, controlled release