W.D. Armstrong Studentship in 3D Printed Braces with Biomimetic Geometry and Molecular Structure
Around the world 20-33% of all people suffer from a painful musculoskeletal condition. Braces are external devices that can significantly ameliorate these conditions by supporting the limbs or spine. Existing braces, however, are often uncomfortable, lead to dependence, and can be too expensive for use in developing countries.
3D printing offers virtually limitless opportunities to manufacture personalized devices by controlling geometry, material composition, and processing conditions at every point in an object. In the same way that biological materials are able to achieve properties far beyond those of their constituents through complex and locally varying structure, novel 3D printed braces could feature unprecedented combinations of properties and functionality.
The student will develop new structures and materials that enable orthoses to provide support yet feel like natural parts of a patient's body. They will gain experience in a broad range of areas including computational design, biomechanics, materials science, and medical devices. The student will be co-supervised by Mr. Wasim Khan of the Department of Surgery at the University of Cambridge. There will also be diverse opportunities to realize devices through clinical collaborations including at the Cambridge University Hospitals and in developing countries.
This studentship will cover University fees at the UK/EU rate and a maintenance allowance of at least £14,777 per year for UK/EU/Overseas students.
Applicants should have (or expect to obtain by the start date) at least a good 2.1 degree in an Engineering or related subject.
To apply for this studentship, please send your CV, undergraduate transcripts, and a cover letter describing any previous research experience as well as why you would like to undertake a PhD to Dr. Sebastian Pattinson (swp29@cam.ac.uk) to arrive no later than 10 July 2019, though applications will be reviewed as they arrive.
For more information click "LINK TO ORIGINAL" below.
This opportunity has expired. It was originally published here:
https://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/21950/