PhD in Multiscale Characterisation of Damage in Spinal Tissue

This PhD project will explore multiscale biomechanics of intervertebral discs, using a combination of experimental and computational approaches to assess damage due to surgical interventions. It will involve using and developing methodologies to evaluate tissue biomechanics (e.g., testing and modelling tissues) and visualise tissue damage (e.g., using digital image correlation, or confocal microscopy) before and after performing mock surgical interventions.<br /> <br /> Chronic back pain affects one in four adults. Emerging treatments (e.g., injecting biomaterials) are non-invasive, however there is little information on the damage mechanisms at play during surgical interventions and how they vary between patients. The data and the methods developed in this PhD will address this gap, ultimately influencing the evaluation of surgical options for the spine with a more customisable approach than what is currently possible, contributing to global priorities such as the Sustainable Development Goal of “Good Health and Wellbeing”.<br /> <br /> The PhD candidate will join the team of Dr Mengoni, a leader in damage modelling in soft tissues, and will be co-advised by Dr Herbert whose expertise in biomechanical characterisation of tissues using multimodal analysis will provide access to unique techniques. The PhD project will benefit from extensive materials characterisation capabilities in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.<br /> <br /> An inclusive environment and supportive application process: 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.<br /> <br /> Interested? Discuss this PhD Opportunity with Marlène Mengoni by contacting: m.mengoni@leeds.ac.uk

<p style="margin-top:7px; margin-bottom:13px"><strong>Background:</strong></p> <p>This project is part of a large interdisciplinary research endeavour on the preclinical evaluation of surgical interventions of the intervertebral disc. It will contribute to a wider goal of integrating computer models based on robust experimental data as part of patient-specific solutions for spinal disorders. Through several large research projects, we have developed experimental and computational models to evaluate the macroscopic biomechanics of the intervertebral disc where the computational models allow for the controlled evaluation of factors which cannot be tested experimentally. We have also started working on computational models at smaller scales that can take into consideration the hierarchical and fibrous structure of the components of the intervertebral disc.</p> <p>This PhD project will develop experimental approaches at smaller scales to generate unique data and will integrate scales of interest within computational models.</p> <p><strong>Research objectives:</strong></p> <p>In this PhD project, you will aim to develop models to evaluate the biomechanical consequences of surgical interventions on intervertebral disc tissue across scales.</p> <p>Specific objectives will depend on your skills and preferences and will be developed with the supervision team. Examples could include:</p> <ol> <li>Adapt a macroscopic intervertebral disc biomechanical testing protocol to incorporate measurements of tissue damage propagation.</li> <li>Develop microscopic characterisation of the intervertebral tissue biomechanics using combination of mechanical testing and imaging methods (optical and confocal microscopy or histology).</li> <li>Develop and validated computational models of damaged tissue at different scales.</li> <li>Explore a suite of techniques that can assess and take into consideration the level of tissue degeneration.</li> <li>Integrate computational models of damaged intervertebral tissue at diverse scales</li> </ol> <p><strong>Training and Career Development</strong></p> <p>You will benefit from a broad, structured programme of training, gaining skills in demand for careers in MedTech R&D, within academia and industry.</p> <p>In this PhD, you will gain specific technical skills and training in advanced computational modelling methods including verification and validation aspects, histology and microscopy, and biomechanical testing of tissues at different scales from whole tissues to bundles of collagen fibres that the tissue is composed of. Full training will be provided on all laboratory methods and the associated health and safety requirements.</p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>Skills Required</strong></p> <p>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 bioimaging or in finite element analysis (if possible, with knowledge of non-linear modelling),</p> <p>During the project, you may 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.</p> <p>Equally important are problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently within an interdisciplinary team.</p> <p><strong>The Research Environment</strong></p> <p>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’.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>We can help support your application! – Contact our <a href="https://contextualoutreach.leeds.ac.uk/pgr-diversity/access-to-research/">Access to Research Team</a></p> <p style="margin-top:7px; margin-bottom:13px"><strong>Why Study for a PhD at the School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds?</strong></p> <p>The School of Mechanical Engineering at Leeds is a globally recognised centre of excellence, offering PhD students the opportunity to contribute to impactful research across diverse and cutting-edge fields. With 96% of research rated as “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” (REF 2021), the School is home to four specialist research institutes:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering</strong> – Pioneering innovations in joint replacement and regenerative medicine, with research that has influenced international clinical standards and improved outcomes for over a million patients </li> <li><strong>Institute of Thermofluids</strong> – Tackling global challenges in energy, transport, and sustainability through advanced fluid dynamics and heat transfer research</li> <li><strong>Institute of Functional Surfaces</strong> – Leading work in tribology, corrosion, and surface engineering, with applications in energy, carbon abatement, aerospace, automotive, and biomedical sectors</li> <li><strong>Institute of Design, Robotics and Manufacturing (iDRaM) – </strong>iDRaM brings together over 100 researchers and technical staff to tackle complex challenges in design, robotics, and advanced manufacturing. The institute is renowned for achieving real-world impact in applications spanning healthcare, aerospace, and industrial automation.</li> </ul> <p>PhD students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, including UK-leading labs and simulation platforms, and are supported by the Leeds Doctoral College, which provides tailored training, wellbeing services, and career development opportunities.</p> <p>The School maintains strong industry links with organisations such as GE Global Research, Johnson & Johnson, Honeywell, AECOM, Infineum and Total Energies, offering students opportunities to engage in collaborative projects, attend industry seminars, and build networks that support future careers in academia or industry </p> <p>Join a vibrant, international research community in a dynamic city, and be part of a university committed to solving real-world problems through engineering innovation.</p> <p><strong>Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering (iMBE)</strong></p> <div> <div> <div id="_com_1" language="JavaScript"> <p>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’.</p> <p>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.</p> </div> </div> </div>

<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 <strong><em>EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Science</em>s </strong>and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <strong><em>PhD in Multiscale Characterisation of Damage in Spinal Tissue</em> </strong>as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/staff/612/dr-marlene-mengoni">Dr Marlene Mengoni</a> as your proposed supervisor.  <em><strong>Please state in the Finance section that you are applying for the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2026/27: 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>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 14 November 2025:</p> <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> <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>

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>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Marlene Mengoni by email to <a href="mailto:M.Mengoni@leeds.ac.uk">M.Mengoni@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>