About the project
This project aims to transform the treatment of large bone defects by creating personalised, 3D-printed scaffolds that are strong, bioactive and clinically relevant. You will develop functionalised nanoclay hydrogel bioinks, optimise additive bio-manufacturing, and validate performance in vitro with engineering–medicine collaboration and Renovos Biologics.
The project will develop 3D-printed personalised bone tissue engineering scaffolds, targeting the rapid regeneration of critical-sized bone defects due to accidents or diseases. Novel nanoclay-based hydrogel biomaterials will be synthesised, integrating patient-centred design and digital manufacturing feedback tools to optimise mechanical and biological performance.
You'll work across School of Engineering and School of Human Development and Health, and also collaborate with Renovos Biological Ltd, to investigate the relationships between scaffold architecture, material functionality, and tissue response, enabling digitally informed healthcare manufacturing and accelerating translation to clinical and industrial applications.
Four key tasks will be delivered:
- development of novel bioink and scaffold
- development of bespoke bioprinting strategy
- conduct biological validation work for pre-clinical proof
- explore translational pathway and industry integration
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
