£12,500 per annum (including £1000 research expenses budget) and tuition fees for 3 years
Applications are invited for a three year full-time PhD bursary investigating the development of materials which are biocompatible and aid wound healing.
Biomaterials play a rapidly growing role in medical practice and wound healing is a major application for development. The protein collagen occurs naturally in the body, making it a suitable basis for the development of composite, multifunctional biomaterials. However, to fulfil specific biological requirements, naturally occurring collagen needs to be manipulated into various forms with tailored functionality (e.g. controlled release of drugs, high moisture absorbency, flexibility, strength, predictable biodegradability). Therefore, the project is comprised of the following main elements:
The creation of composite, reconstituted biomaterials, with physical properties suited to wound healing.
Method development for the production of optimised collagen-based biomaterials in various forms
Evaluate the value of blending soluble collagen with other biopolymers
Chemical modification of the biomaterials, including the fixation of biologically active molecules as part of the stabilisation mechanism.
Kinetically controlled release of active molecules, made available at appropriate rates to constitute 'smart' reaction.
To apply for the bursary applicants must have a first degree (first or upper second) or a Masters degree in a relevant subject, preferably biochemistry, chemistry or materials science. Research experience at post graduate level will be an advantage. The successful candidate will be highly motivated, have excellent written and verbal communication skills, and be able to relate to people in both academic and non-academic settings.
Closing date: 15 January 2010
Interview date: 17 February 2010
Start date: Negotiable but no later than May 2010
For an application pack, including further details of the project, please email: david.watson@northampton.ac.uk
Additional informal enquiries can be made to Dr Paula Antunes (paula.antunes@northampton.ac.uk).
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