Characterisation and Optimisation of Orthopaedic Bone Cement

PGR-P-2320

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 Gavin Day and Dr Anthony Herbert
Schools: School of Mechanical Engineering
Research groups/institutes: Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering

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

This PhD will combine experimental and computational methods to characterise and optimise polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement, widely used in hip and knee replacements. In collaboration with industry and clinical partners, you will perform multi-scale experimental testing of cement produced under different mixing conditions, develop integrated implant-cement-bone models, and propose improved testing standards that better reflect clinical performance. PMMA bone cement plays a critical role in orthopaedic implant fixation, yet defects such as internal voids reduce durability and can cause implant failure. Current ISO standards for bone cement testing do not adequately capture these risks. This project will generate clinically relevant evidence to optimise cement production and update international testing standards, directly supporting safer and longer-lasting implants. The work supports UN Goals 3 (Health and Well-being) by reducing revision surgeries and improving outcomes, and 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by strengthening standards and healthcare technologies. The project will be supervised by Dr Anthony Herbert (biomechanics and biomaterials) and Dr Gavin Day (computational modelling and shape analysis), supported by Summit Medical and clinical partner Mr Andrew Craig. Based in the Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering (IMBE) and the Bragg Centre, you will benefit from world-class facilities in materials characterisation, biomechanics, and computational modelling. An inclusive environment and supportive application process: As a research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Discuss this PhD Opportunity with Dr Anthony by contacting: A.Herbert@leeds.ac.uk

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

Background: Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is widely used in orthopaedic surgery to secure implants such as hip prostheses and is valued for its strength and reliability. However, the presence of voids and other defects during production can significantly weaken cement, leading to fatigue cracking, implant loosening, and ultimately revision surgery. Current ISO standards for testing bone cement are limited in their ability to capture these clinically relevant failure modes, leaving gaps in the evaluation of cement performance. This project builds on recent collaborative work with industry partner, Summit Medical, which revealed shortcomings in ISO testing protocols and identified opportunities to optimise both cement production and testing methods. By combining advanced experimental characterisation with computational modelling of the implant–cement–bone interface, this PhD will provide critical insight into how cement properties influence implant fixation. It is intended that the work will directly inform updates to international standards, improving patient safety and implant longevity. Research objectives: The aim of this PhD is to advance the structural and mechanical characterisation of PMMA bone cement, optimising production methods and testing standards to enhance orthopaedic implant safety and longevity. Specific objectives include: <ol> <li>Performing multi-scale materials characterisation of PMMA cement produced under different mixing conditions. </li> <li>Developing integrated experimental and finite element implant-cement-bone models to evaluate the influence of cement properties on clinical performance. </li> <li>Identifying limitations in existing ISO standards and proposing optimised, clinically relevant testing protocols. </li> <li>Validating proposed standards in collaboration with the ISO Bone and Joint Replacement Committee, ensuring global impact on testing guidelines.</li> </ol> Training and Career Development In this PhD, you will gain a unique blend of experimental and computational skills to address a clinically important challenge in orthopaedic biomaterials. You will be trained in multi-scale experimental methods including molecular and thermal characterisation (e.g. DSC, GPC), atomic force microscopy, and mechanical testing under clinically relevant loading. You will also develop computational modelling expertise, building and validating finite element models of the implant-cement-bone interface. Through our collaboration with Summit Medical, you will undertake a structured secondment, gaining experience of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and access to industry R&D, processing, and quality assurance teams. You will also benefit from engagement with the ISO Bone and Joint Replacement Committee, contributing to international biomaterials testing standards. Beyond technical expertise, you will develop transferable skills in project management, clinical collaboration, responsible research (including handling of clinical data), scientific writing for academic and non-academic audiences, and presentation skills through conferences and group meetings. The project will make use of state-of-the-art facilities in the Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering (IMBE) and the Bragg Centre, providing an outstanding environment for career development in academia, industry, or standards organisations. Skills Required You will have experience in one or more of the following areas: experimental testing of materials (ideally including mechanical testing), computational modelling (ideally finite element analysis), or advanced materials characterisation. Experience with biomaterials or medical devices would be beneficial but is not essential. Full training will be provided in all required experimental and computational methods, alongside health and safety procedures for laboratory work. Most importantly, you should have enthusiasm for developing cross-disciplinary skills, a strong motivation to tackle clinically relevant engineering challenges, and a willingness to work closely with industrial and clinical partners. 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.

<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 Characterisation and Optimisation of Orthopaedic Bone Cement 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 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 will be a minimum of 3 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 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 Dr Anthony Herbert by email to <a href="mailto:A.Herbert@leeds.ac.uk">A.Herbert@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>