PhD studentship 2019 - Effect of Cochlear Shape and Size on Cochlear Implant Insertion Forces, University of Cambridge, UK

Applicants are invited to apply for a three-year PhD studentship funded by Action on Hearing Loss, a UK Charity charity funding research into the prevention and treatment of hearing loss and ear disease, as part of a co-funding program with Cochlear Corporation. The studentship is available in the laboratory of Prof. Manohar Bance, a Cochlear Implant Surgeon-Scientist in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge jointly supervised by Prof. George Malliaras (Engineering) and Dr Alex Rutz (research Associate in Prof. Malliaras lab).

The central aim of this PhD project is to investigate how material properties of cochlear implant arrays interact with the anatomy of the cochlea to create insertion forces that can damae the cochlea. The aim is to build 3D models of the cochlea, and develop sensors that can measure shear and load forces that are embedded into this construct, as well as into the tip of the implant array. Implant arrays of different material properties and shapes will be constructed, and we will measure insertion forces both in cadaveric temporal bones, and in 3D printed constructs to optimize the design of cochlear implant arrays to minimize trauma in the inner ear during insertion.

Cochlear implants are life-changing technologies for deafness, but we would also like to preserve the remaining hearing and function in the cochlea, and insertion trauma can cause loss of this, as well as set up an inflammation and fibrosis cascade that can lead to damage to the inner ear.

The studentship will be split between Prof. Bances Lab, Prof. Malliaras Lab, and the Biomaker Space at the biomedical campus.

Students should have a background in mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or electrical engineering, and will be involved in 3D printing of anatomical models, design and construct. Of PDMS based arrays, and use of sensors in 3D printed structures.

This is a fully funded, three-year PhD studentship commencing 1 October 2019 that includes:

• A fee waiver equivalent to the Home/EU rates. Overseas students may apply but will need to fund the difference between the Home and Overseas fee from another source.

• A stipend at £15,000 per annum.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Professor Manohar Bance (mlb59@cam.ac.uk).

Any queries relating to the application process should be sent to Shannon Tinley- Browne at pgneurosci@medschl.cam.ac.uk.

This is a fully funded, 3 -year PhD studentship commencing 1st October 2019.

To be enrolled on the PhD programme, applicants should have (or expect to obtain) at least 2:1 honours degree or equivalent.

Applications should be made via the standard admissions procedure on the University's Graduate Admissions website 9 as the start term.

Please include Professor Manohar Bance as the Supervisor's name on application and the reference number ZE19067.

There is no need for a research proposal but a brief summary of what you want to work on will be sufficient under "Research Summary".

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

Deadline for applications for this studentship is 31 May 2019. There is a fee of £60.00 to apply which is not refundable.

Interviews are likely during week commencing 24th June 2019.

For more information click "LINK TO ORIGINAL" below