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A postgraduate research opportunity at the University of Otago.

Details

Close date
No date set
Academic background
Health Sciences, Sciences
Host campus
Christchurch
Qualification
PhD
Supervisor
Professor Tim Woodfield, Dr Khoon Lim

Overview

3D printed hydrogel

At Christchurch Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering (CReaTE) research group, University of Otago (Christchurch), we investigate new techniques and technologies for engineering complex 3-dimensional implants and biological tissues.

Additive manufacturing and 3D printing are shaping the future of orthopaedic surgery and regenerative medicine. The group focuses on the development of additive-manufactured orthopaedic implants and regenerative medicine strategies targeting repair of cartilage and bone.

3D Printer imageThis project will investigate the use of different manufacturing strategies, including 3D printing and microfluidic techniques, to create hybrid scaffolds for use in orthopaedic tissue repair.

One of the key focuses is the use of engineering principles to design and develop microfluidic systems, to support the fabrication of cellular micro-tissues. These micro tissues are to be used in conjunction with 3D printed scaffolds, to control delivery of cells and/or bioactive factors.

You will work within our multidisciplinary research team of engineers, material scientists, biologists and orthopaedic clinicians.

Key skills required

  • Applicants should hold an Undergraduate and/or Master's degree in Engineering (mechanical/ biomed), Applied Physics, Additive Manufacturing, Biomaterials or related disciplines in engineering or biological sciences, and preferably should have an 'A' grade average (or equivalent GPA)
  • Excellent communication skills, intrinsic motivation and independence are essential
  • Knowledge of characterisation techniques such as mechanical testing is required
  • Experience in modelling and simulation including CAD/FEA/CFD would be highly valued
  • Knowledge of fluid mechanics and/or use of microfluidic systems is desirable
  • Experience with experimental lab work and/or device design, preferably scaffold fabrication/3D printing would be advantageous

Opportunities offered

  • Opportunity to work with our international collaborators and in close collaboration with partners within the MedTech Centre of Research Excellence a national consortia of medical technology researchers and industry partners in New Zealand
  • To attend courses as part of the MedTech CoRE Doctoral Training Programme
  • Interaction with medical device industry partners as well as orthopaedic and veterinary surgeons

To apply

Please send the following documents to create.research@otago.ac.nz:

  • A detailed CV including the names of two referees
  • A covering letter highlighting your research experience
  • Copy of your undergraduate/ postgraduate academic transcripts

Location

The research will take place at the University of Otago (Christchurch), a multi-disciplinary campus recognised for its outstanding reputation for combining basic science and clinical health research. Christchurch is a vibrant city based on the coast and close to the Southern Alps of New Zealand, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities locally including mountain biking, surfing, hiking and skiing.

  • For a video about Christchurch and what it's like to undertake research in the CReaTE Group and University of Otago Christchurch campus – visit here
  • For more information on the CReaTE Group, facilities, staff, students and projects visit here: CReaTE Group

Contact

Deborah McMahon
Tel +64 3 364 1697
Emailcreate.research@otago.ac.nz

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