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Medical and Biological Engineering

PGR-RA-116

Expertise of research area
biological scaffolds; cardiovascular; computational modelling; finite element analysis; in vitro testing; joint replacement; medical engineering; Medical technologies; musculoskeletal; robotics; tissue engineering


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

With a vision of 50 active years after 50, we're dedicated to improving the quality of life of an ageing population. We focus on longer-lasting joint replacements, tissue-sparing interventions and biological scaffolds for tissue regeneration, supported by computational and experimental simulation systems for design and pre-clinical testing.

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

<p><a href="http://www.imbe.leeds.ac.uk">The Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering</a> is a multidisciplinary research group spanning engineering and biological sciences. Driven by clinical challenges, we undertake solution-focused pioneering research in medical technologies. We collaborate closely with clinicians through the <a href="http://leedsbrc.nihr.ac.uk/" title="National Institute for Health - Leeds Biomedical Research Centre">NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Centre</a> and with industry partners. By combining expertise in science, engineering and innovation and medicine, we’re able to translate scientific discovery and research into the treatment of human diseases and disabilities.</p> <p>We focus on longer-lasting joint replacements, tissue-sparing interventions and biological scaffolds for tissue regeneration, supported by computational and experimental simulation systems for design and pre-clinical testing. Our current activities include research on the hip, knee, spine and ankle joints, as well as cardiovascular devices. Our capabilities lie in the experimental evaluation and computational modelling of tissues, devices and interventions, as well as in the development of acellular scaffolds for tissue engineering and repair. We have particular expertise in innovation and translation.</p> <p><a href="http://www.imbe.leeds.ac.uk">The Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering</a> hosts a world-class hub of expertise and has over £30 million current research funding, establishing Leeds as a national and international centre of excellence for medical technology, research and innovation. The Institute houses 1000 square metres of Class 2, ISO9001-accredited laboratory space for research and innovation, and is one of the largest multi-disciplinary orthopaedic engineering research groups in Europe. We also provide extensive computational facilities and access to the University high-performance computer systems.</p> <p>All postgraduate researchers are based in our dedicated Medical Engineering Building which includes shared study rooms for PhD and post-doctoral researchers, innovation professionals and support staff, alongside social space and meeting rooms. Our PhD researchers also benefit from an additional programme of bespoke training in innovation and translation in the MedTech sector, plus opportunities for clinical and industrial secondments. </p> <p>Our international reputation for research makes Leeds an ideal place to pursue a research degree, whether as preparation for a research career in industry or as the start of an academic career.</p> <h5>Why do your PhD at Leeds? </h5> <p><strong>96% of our research is world-leading (REF 2021) </strong><br /> At Leeds, our research addresses the most prevalent real-world challenges – providing solutions that have had both a national and global impact. <br /> <strong>Study in an active research environment </strong><br /> Studying your PhD with us means you’ll be working in a professional research environment, using UK-leading facilities to bring your project to life – alongside active researchers who are at the forefront of their area. <br /> <strong>A strong network of support  </strong><br /> The Leeds Doctoral College connects our community of researchers and can offer you the guidance, services and opportunities you’ll need to get the most out of your PhD. <br /> <strong>Close industry links </strong><br /> Our partnerships and links to companies and academic institutions give you the opportunity to network at industry talks, seminars and conferences, building connections that'll benefit your next steps after you complete your PhD. <br /> <strong>Professional skills development  </strong><br /> We think of the whole picture at Leeds. That’s why we offer a range of workshops and courses that'll enhance your skillset further and transfer into your professional career. <br /> <strong>Personal and wellbeing services </strong><br /> Mental health and wellbeing support are integral to who we are at Leeds and you’ll have access to the full range of services we offer to ensure you’re feeling your best – and reaching your potential in your studies. <br /> <strong>Join our global community </strong><br /> We welcome students, researchers, academics, partners and alumni from more than 140 countries, all over the world. This means, as a university, we’re bringing together different cultures and perspectives which helps strengthen our research – and societal impact.</p> <h3>Useful links and further reading:</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering-research-degrees">Research degrees within the School of Mechanical Engineering</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.imbe.leeds.ac.uk">The Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering-research-innovation">School of Mechanical Engineering, Research and Innovation</a></li> </ul> <h3>Leeds Doctoral College</h3> <p>Our <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-leeds-doctoral-college">Doctoral College</a> supports you throughout your postgraduate research journey. It brings together all the support services and opportunities to enhance your research, your development, and your overall experience.</p>

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

<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>.</p>

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

<p>For general enquiries and details regarding the application process, please contact the Graduate School Office:</p> <p>e: <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a>, t: +44 (0)113 34 35057</p>


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<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Linked funding opportunities</h2>