Spinal Interventions: In Vitro Analysis using a Spine Simulator

PGR-P-2303

Key facts

Type of research degree: PhD
Application deadline: Friday 14 November 2025
Project start date: Thursday 1 October 2026
Country eligibility: UK only
Funding: Competition funded
Source of funding: Doctoral training partnership
Supervisors: Dr Marlène Mengoni and Professor Ruth Wilcox
Additional supervisors: Dr Justin F Gallagher
Schools: School of Mechanical Engineering
Research groups/institutes: Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Summary</h2>

The aim of this PhD is to develop new laboratory tests to evaluate implants used in spinal surgery. Utilising a novel six-axis simulator, the project will explore the application of more realistic loads/motions to examine the biomechanical performance of spinal disc treatments. Chronic back pain affects over six million people in the UK. However, the development of better surgical treatments is limited by the lack of established methods to test and optimise new implants in the laboratory before their clinical introduction. The PhD will develop and validate a suite of in vitro tests using animal/human tissue specimens in the spine simulator, which is supported by advanced control systems for precision and repeatability. Complementarily computational modelling methods will be used to guide test design. The evaluation methods developed will allow new treatments to be optimised prior to clinical introduction, ultimately improving outcomes for patients. The PhD candidate will be supervised by Prof Wilcox, Dr Mengoni and Dr Gallagher, combining expertise in spinal biomechanics, joint simulation, control and computational engineering. The project will benefit from world-leading tissue simulation facilities, state-of-the-art laboratory and imaging facilities. There are opportunities for collaboration and secondments to the simulator manufacturer and wider training on medical device innovation.

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Full description</h2>

Background: This project is part of a large interdisciplinary research endeavour on the development and preclinical evaluation of intervertebral disc treatments. Through several large research projects, we have developed a new injectable biomaterial and its associated experimental testing to evaluate the biomaterial capacity to restore healthy intervertebral disc biomechanics. We have recently acquired a new 6-axis simulator that will allow expanding the suite of biomechanical tests to more representative scenarios. This PhD project will develop and validate a platform of tests in the spine simulator. Research objectives: The aim of this PhD is to develop and validate a platform of tests on a recently commissioned ‘spine simulator’ so that spinal devices can be rigorously tested under realistic loading conditions preclinically. Objectives and methodologies: <ol role="list" start="1"> <li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-font="" data-leveltext="%1." data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-listid="4" role="listitem"> Identify most extreme modes of loading likely to cause device failure by reviewing the growing body of published in vivo evidence. </li> </ol> <ol role="list" start="2"> <li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="2" data-font="" data-leveltext="%1." data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-listid="4" role="listitem"> Benchmark the performance of the new spinal simulator by comparison to previous uniaxial testing using synthetic specimens. In close collaboration with the manufacturer, algorithms will be developed and validated to optimise the simulator control and demonstrate its repeatability. </li> </ol> <ol role="list" start="3"> <li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="3" data-font="" data-leveltext="%1." data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-listid="4" role="listitem"> Progressively extend the testing methods to six degrees of freedom representations of extremes of physiological load likely to cause device failure. Computational methods will be used first to examine a range of cases and support development of the simulator inputs and control, before applying these in vitro on porcine spinal segments. </li> </ol> <ol role="list" start="4"> <li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-font="" data-leveltext="%1." data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-listid="4" role="listitem"> Establish a suite of tests that evaluate the performance of a specific spinal treatment (nucleus augmentation), validated against outcomes evidence clinic and building evidence for submission of a new international testing standard. </li> </ol> Training and Career Development You will benefit from a broad, structured programme of training, gaining skills in demand for careers in MedTech R&D, within academia and industry. In this PhD, you will gain specific technical skills and training in biomechanical testing, control systems engineering, usage of the 6-axis simulator (provided by the manufacturer, Simulation Solutions), advanced computational modelling methods. Full training will be provided on all laboratory methods and the associated health and safety requirements. Besides these technical skills, you will learn practical aspects of project management, scientific writing for technical or non-technical dissemination, and gain presentation skills through international conferences and group meetings. You will join a group of researchers working on the spine in a wider research team where you will be able to contribute to research culture and benefit from mentoring outside of the supervision team. You will also have access to training offered through HealthTech Leeds on ethical and regulatory aspects of MedTech innovation as well as patient engagement. Together these opportunities will build a skills portfolio and expertise that is highly sought after in the biomedical engineering sector. Skills Required You will be motivated to work with both experimental and computational approaches. You will have a background in experimental testing of materials (if possible, with experience working with anatomical tissues), in control or in finite element analysis. During the project, you will be expected to prepare and test human cadaveric or animal tissue specimens; previous experience in handling human or animal tissue would be beneficial, but not essential. Equally important are problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently within an interdisciplinary team. The Research Environment You will join the multi-disciplinary, dynamic Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering (IMBE) embedded within the School of Mechanical Engineering and the Faculty of Biological Sciences at the University of Leeds. The IMBE is a world-renowned medical engineering research centre which specialises in research and translation of medical technologies that promote ’50 active years after 50’. As a PhD student within IMBE, there will be opportunities to contribute to wider activities related to medical technologies including public and patient engagement, group training and social events. Groups of researchers working on aligned projects or using similar methods meet regularly to share ideas and best practice, and we encourage collegiate working. We will support your long-term career ambitions through bespoke training and encourage external secondments, laboratory visits or participation at international conferences. Our Commitment to an Inclusive, Equitable and Diverse Research Community: As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. 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. We can help support your application! – <a href="https://contextualoutreach.leeds.ac.uk/pgr-diversity/access-to-research/">Contact our Access to Research team! </a>

<h2 class="heading">How to apply</h2>

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 EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Sciences and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is: Spinal Interventions: In Vitro Analysis using a Spine Simulator as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/staff/192/professor-ruth-wilcox">Professor Ruth Wilcox</a> as your proposed supervisor. Please state in the Finance section that you are applying for the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2026/27: Mechanical Engineering. If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below). 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. Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 14 November 2025: <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date including grading scheme</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> 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.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Entry requirements</h2>

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.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">English language requirements</h2>

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.

<h2 class="heading">Funding on offer</h2>

A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£20,780 in academic session 2025/26) for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided. This opportunity is open to UK applicants only. All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit. Please note that there is only 2 funded place(s) available and there are 17 projects in competition for this funding. If you are successful in securing an academic offer for PhD study, this does not mean that you have been successful in securing an offer of funding. Please refer to the <a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ukcisa.org.uk%2F&data=05%7C02%7CJ.S.Hewer%40leeds.ac.uk%7C07632c93c06a442dca3d08ddfc172939%7Cbdeaeda8c81d45ce863e5232a535b7cb%7C0%7C0%7C638943898649349324%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nylGSov8jOc7hr6X%2FmfnfQPecbVUnGqgoSqVgPGy5K0%3D&reserved=0">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.

<h2 class="heading">Contact details</h2>

For further information about this project, please contact Professor Ruth Wilcox by email to <a href="mailto:R.K.Wilcox@leeds.ac.uk">R.K.Wilcox@leeds.ac.uk</a> 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>

<h3 class="heading heading--sm">Linked funding opportunities</h3>