PhD Studentship: Ultrasound induced flows and transport phenomena in confined dentine models (linked to EPSRC grant SONATA)

Vacancy Information

The studentship is part of the EPSRC Healthcare Technologies funded project SONATA. The project is a collaboration between the University of Birmingham (Dentistry, Chemistry) and UCL Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical) and aims to develop novel antimicrobial particles for ultrasound -controlled release and treatment of dental biofilms.

Biofilms are a common source of bacterial infection; they thrive in oral cavities causing tooth decay and are difficult to treat due to the inability of the drug to reach the complex and inaccessible microstructure of dental tissues. Ultrasonic probes in combination with novel drug particle designs provide a promising tool to disrupt dental biofilms eradicating oral disease.

Studentship Description

The aim of the PhD project is to provide a physics -based approach to the design of such targeted drug delivery systems by characterising the flows generated by ultrasound in fluidic systems mimicking dentine tubules or root canals in the presence and absence of biofilm. It will combine microfluidics and laser- based diagnostic techniques to quantify the velocity field in the ultrasound generated flows in various geometries, and their impact on drug release and biofilm disruption. This knowledge will then help to optimise the drug delivery platform.

Person Specification

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated engineering graduate with excellent knowledge of fluid mechanics and an interest in microfluidics and flow diagnostics for healthcare applications. Strong analytical, organisation and communication skills, creativity and an aptitude for experimental work are essential. Matlab programming skills are highly desirable. The applicant will have an opportunity to work in two world class fluid mechanics groups in the Departments of Chemical Engineering (ThAMeS Multiphase) and Mechanical Engineering (Flume), with an established record of research into a diverse range of transport problems and training and mentorship of early career researchers.

This funding is available to UK and EU (non-UK) nationals subject to EPSRC student eligibility requirements. We actively encourage the application of female applicants for this position.