BBSRC-GSK Case PhD Studentship
If you have any studentship opportunities for Regener8 members, please contact us.
Colloidal nanoparticles for remineralisation of dentine
This studentship offers a valuable opportunity to work with scientists and clinicians in both Sheffield and our industrial partner GSK, a world- leading health-care company. There will, therefore, be an opportunity to carry out some of the work at the GSK laboratories.
The Biomaterials Research Cluster is a dynamic group of experienced basic scientists and clinicians with a wide range of interests ranging from tissue engineering to applied biomaterials science.
Dentine demineralisation is mostly an irreversible process that is caused by dissolution of the mineral content by acids; from bacteria, diet (soft-drinks) or gastric acids. The net effect is significant pain and a catastrophic loss of tooth tissue affecting the longevity of the remaining tooth structure. Current research undertaken by this group has demonstrated the ability of nano-particulate solutions to infiltrate demineralised dentine with the potential of remineralisation. The proposed project builds on these promising results and seeks to assess the ability of nano-particulate solutions to remineralise human dentine and develop a method for this.
This PhD will evaluate the possible effect of proteins in the collagen matrix to increase particle bonding affinity, as well as the role of particle modification to achieve an increased mineral sedimentation in the collagen matrix. The candidate will gain firsthand experience in the use of electron microscopy and other elemental analytical techniques.
Eligibility
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, a minimum of an upper-second-class Honours degree (2.1 or above) in bioengineering, biomaterials, biomedical science or related subject.
The award covers UK/EU fees and a stipend at the standard UK research rate of £13,590 and GSK will provide a further top-up” of £3,000 per annum. A prospective candidate should check the BBSRC's eligibility criteria prior to application.
Applications
Applications should be made using the on-line application form http://www.shef.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/apply and should include an up-to-date CV with a covering letter. The covering letter must include a summary as to why you wish to apply for this particular studentship and how your interests and experience relate to the project.
Further details of the project can be obtained by contacting Dr Nicolas Martin n.martin@sheffield.ac.uk.
Applications must be received by 24 June 2011.
Click here to download the document.
