Development of decellularised rectus sheath fascia (dCELL-RSF) for the repair of abdominal wall defects

The R&D team at NHS Blood and Transplant (NHS-BT) in conjunction with the Department of Surgery at Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge have expressed the need for a decellularised rectus sheath fascia (dCELL-RSF) for the repair of abdominal wall defects. The team believe the proposed device would be widely applicable in transplantation, reconstructive and gynaecological surgery. NHS-BT require processes to remove the native cells (decellularisation) of human donor RSF that would otherwise cause immune rejection. The project lead has been approached to optimise decellularisation protocols for RSF and provide assurances that RSF structural and mechanical properties are not negatively affected when processed.

<p style="margin-bottom:11px"><strong>Project Aims:</strong></p> <p>The aim is to investigate the structure-function relationships of bulk dCELL-RSF tissue and its comprising biological component parts in a multi-scale approach. This approach will inform if/how decellularisation-related biomechanical changes on the nano/micro-scale affect whole-tissue function.</p> <p>The objectives are:</p> <p>(1) Develop effective cell-removal processes with NHS-BT</p> <p>(2) Component-tissue level analysis. Apply recently co-developed Atomic force microscopy and nano-indentation techniques  to characterise/compare RSF biological components (collagen etc.) in dCELL and native control specimens.</p> <p>(3) Whole-tissue level analysis. Adapt existing in-house material testing methods for bulk dCELL and native RSF tissues and determine decellularisation process effects on mechanical properties.</p> <p><strong>Potential Impact</strong></p> <p>The prospects of opportunities to translate findings are high with an industrial partner in place - the partner has previously translated a dCELL technology with the University and secured funding for proof-of-concept work with the applicant. The evidence generated in the studentship will be utilised for support evidence for grant applications under the above-mentioned EPSRC priority areas, in addition to future impact case studies. Decellularised products offer the benefit of being low-cost and off-the-shelf solutions for easy storage and logistics. Therefore, this research area will be well primed for international funding opportunities in healthcare improvements for developing nations.</p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Sciences</strong></em> and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Development of decellularised rectus sheath fascia (dCELL-RSF) for the repair of abdominal wall defects</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/staff/567/dr-anthony-herbert">Dr Anthony Herbert</a> as your proposed supervisor. Please state clearly in the Finance section that the funding source you are applying for is <em><strong>EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2025/26: Mechanical Engineering.</strong></em></p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">Applications will be considered after the closing date.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 31 January 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£19,237 in academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years.  Training and support will also be provided.</p> <p>This opportunity is open to all applicants.  All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p><em><strong>Important:</strong></em> Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Anthony Herbert by email to <a href="mailto:A.Herbert@leeds.ac.uk">A.Herbert@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>