(EPSRC) Bioprinting Gradient Scaffolds for Osteochondral Tissue Engineering Using Cell Instructive Microparticles

Interested in exploring the untapped potential of stem cells in tissue regeneration and healing using cutting-edge interdisciplinary research techniques?

Join us in addressing the global challenge of osteoarthritis (OA), which affects over 500 million people worldwide and is a leading cause of disability. This project integrates advances in tissue engineering and bioprinting to develop an in vitromodel of the osteochondral (OC) interface that replicates the complex gradient transition from bone to cartilage. Thiswill build on Dr Amer’s state-of-the-art research on the 3D topographical patterning of polymer microparticles to direct MSCs differentiation without using traditional biochemical supplements (Amer et al, 2021; Ghuloum et al, 2023). It also builds on Prof. Kimber’s world-leading expertise in stem cell-based technologies for osteochondral repair and Dr Domingo’s cutting-edge research into 3D bioprinting for replicating human tissues.

By harnessing state-of-the-art additive manufacturing technologies, such as melt electrowriting and microvalve-based bioprinting, our goal is to create biologically graded scaffolds using cell-instructive materials that promote the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into bone and cartilage cells. By fine-tuning bioprinting parametersand studying how the architectural and mechanical properties of biomaterials guide stem cell differentiation into bone and cartilage cells, we will establish gradient cultures that accurately reflect the OC interface. Using state-of-the-art techniques, including advanced microscopy and bioprinting, you will characterise this innovative system’s impact on MSCs behaviour and differentiation. Biochemical assays of cell function and molecular biology techniques will also be employed to optimise and validate the printed constructs. This will advance our understanding of the relationship between the architecture of bio-printed scaffolds and cell fate, allowing us to design novel scaffolds able to replicate the cartilage-bone interface in the laboratory. By developing scalable models of the osteochondral interface for basic discovery research and drug screening, improved treatments and interventions can be developed for patients.

This project offers multidisciplinary training at the interface of materials engineering and stem cell biology, involving hands-on experience across the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health and the Henry Royce Institute.

https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/persons/mahetab-amer

https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/persons/marco.domingos

https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/persons/sue.kimber

Entry requirements

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum UK Upper First or 2:1 (or equivalent) in a related area / subject. Candidates with an interest in tissue engineering are encouraged to apply.

How to apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/).

Interested candidates must first make contact with the Primary Supervisor prior to submitting a formal application, to discuss their interest and suitability for the project.

On the online application form select PhD Biochemistry (this is for application purposes only).

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/