Biodegradable Mg alloy scaffolds for musculoskeletal regenerative therapies

About the project

About the Project Applications are invited for a self-funded, 3 year full-time or 6 year part-time PhD project. The PhD will be based in the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering and will be supervised by Dr Roxane Bonithon , Dr Katerina Karali and Professor Gordon Blunn . The work on this project will: Explore the potential of additive manufacturing to create porous magnesium-based scaffolds tailored for musculoskeletal regeneration. Investigate the influence of alloy composition and manufacturing parameters on scaffold degradation rates, mechanical integrity, and bone healing. Assess the influence of different alloys on biological interactions in vitro (including stem cell, osteoblast, osteoclast and macrophage), to ensure biocompatibility, promote tissue regeneration and limit inflammation. Project description This PhD project aims to explore the potential of additive manufacturing for producing porous magnesium (Mg)-based scaffolds designed for musculoskeletal regenerative therapies. These scaffolds address the growing need for temporary implants that support bone healing and naturally degrade over time, eliminating the need for secondary surgeries. Magnesium-based materials are highly attractive for orthopedic applications due to their excellent biocompatibility and mechanical properties similar to bone. The research will focus on developing porous Mg scaffolds using advanced manufacturing techniques, with a particular emphasis on additive manufacturing. Creating controlled porosity is essential to promote bone ingrowth and vascularization while maintaining mechanical integrity during the healing process. The project will also investigate how alloy composition influence degradation rates and structural performance, aiming to optimize both mechanical and biological properties. In vitro studies will assess interactions with stem cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and macrophages to determine cytocompatibility, osteogenic potential, and immune response. The findings have the potential to contribute to next-generation orthopedic solutions that improve patient outcomes. To support this work, the University provides access to multiple state-of-the-art metallic 3D printers, including the 3D Systems ProX 300 and 3D Systems ProJet 5500X. These industry-leading machines enable precise control over printing parameters and material properties General admissions criteria You'll need a good first degree from an internationally recognised university (minimum upper second class or equivalent, depending on your chosen course) or a Master’s degree in a related area. In exceptional cases, we may consider equivalent professional experience and/or Qualifications. English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0. International students will require a study visa from UKVI to pursue the degree in the UK. If the research is in a sensitive or technological subject, the student may also need to secure an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate from the UK Foreign Office. Specific candidate requirements Applicants should have a background in biomaterials, biomedical engineering, materials science, or additive manufacturing coupled with a strong interest for health science. How to Apply We’d encourage you to contact Dr Roxane Bonithon ( roxane.bonithon@port.ac.uk ) to discuss your interest before you apply, quoting the project code. When you are ready to apply, please follow the ' Apply now ' link on the Mechanical and Design Engineering PhD subject area page and select the link for the relevant intake. Make sure you submit a personal statement, proof of your degrees and grades, details of two referees, proof of your English language proficiency and an up-to-date CV. Our ‘ How to Apply ’ page offers further guidance on the PhD application process. When applying please quote project code: SEM10340526

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