From Printer to Patient: Fighting Infections with Laser-Enhanced Metal Implants

Apply and key information

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)

Summary

Implants such as orthopaedic knee or hip implants are being utilised more than ever across the planet. Issues such as corrosion, host integration or aseptic loosening have largely been solved. However, infection in orthopaedic implants has yet to be solved¹. This mode of infection happens due to the formation of antibiotic tolerant biofilms after bacteria attach to a surface. It is thus necessary to prevent bacteria from attaching in the first place. Previous research has involved utilising antibiotics, nanoparticles or coatings on the surface of implants to reduce infection. However, these have some downfalls, including antibiotic resistance, cytotoxicity or delamination.

Laser surface treatment has shown some promise as a method for the reduction of bacterial attachment. This involves pre-treating a surface with a laser, changing the micro and nano topography of a surface, the wettability of the surface and sometimes the chemical composition of the surface. These changes make it less favourable for bacterial attachment without the use of antibiotics, coatings etc.^3–5

As additive manufacturing has been adopted in the manufacture of implants over the past decade, it has many potential advantages, including creation of complex geometry or customisable implants.

One of the challenges of implants manufactured in this fashion is the surface topography, which often requires additional surface treatment ⁶. Laser surface treatment offers a synergistic effect in both treating the surface of 3D printed metals and having the potential to reduce bacterial attachment.

This project will involve the use of additive manufacturing, laser processing, materials science and microbiology. Training of any skills required will take place within the project and previous experience is not necessary to apply for this project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)

These scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance). A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a UK National, or

Have settled status, or

Have pre-settled status, or

Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.