The Biomineralisation research group encompasses skeletal tissue biology, from formation to destruction and genotype to phenotype, at all stages of the translational pipeline.
<p>The Biomineralisation research group encompasses skeletal tissue biology, from formation to destruction and genotype to phenotype, at all stages of the translational pipeline. This includes: </p> <ul> <li>the investigation of molecular mechanisms</li> <li>controlling mammalian biomineralisation events</li> <li>arising from gene mutation in inherited dental and skeletal pathologies of disease pathogenesis</li> <li>permitting development of biomimetic therapeutics for skeletal tissue repair and regeneration</li> <li>utilising ultra-high resolution imaging of cells and biomolecules</li> <li>stem cell enrichment and characterisation.</li> </ul> <h2>Projects</h2> <h3>Filling without Drilling </h3> <p>Untreated tooth decay is the most common disease world-wide. Following the successful spin out of Leeds’ “Filling without Drilling” patent-protected self-assembling peptide (SAP) technology for treatment of early tooth decay (caries) pre-2014, three new SAP products are now available for treating tooth sensitivity and caries prevention. Two further products will be launched this year. <a href="https://www.credentis.com/en/innovation-science/">The company</a>formed to market Leeds’ technology has won 2 major awards, grown in size and turnover and are introducing a new product line treating periodontal disease (gum disease); the sixth most common of all diseases, in the near future.</p> <h3>Advancing the Genetics of Enamel Developmental Abnormalities (AGEnDA)</h3> <p>Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and is designed to last a lifetime even though it has no capacity for cellular repair. Through the investigation of families with Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) – a heterogeneous group of inherited enamel defects – the Leeds team has established a world-leading reputation for discovery of genetic variants that are critical to normal enamel formation.</p> <p>The translation of genetic research discoveries to NHS patient care has started through successful application to the UK Genetic Testing Network (dossier #331 Amelogenesis Imperfecta 21 Gene Panel). This is a first for clinical dentistry and paves the way for defining patient pathways and raising standards of care. </p> <h2>Partnerships and collaborations</h2> <p>We have developed effective research collaborations and knowledge sharing partnerships within a number of related organisations and bodies, both within the Faculty of Medicine and externally. Members of the Biomineralisation research group collaborate with <a href="http://www.welmec.leeds.ac.uk/">The WELMEC Centre of Excellence in Medical Engineering</a> and <a href="http://lmbru.leeds.ac.uk/">The Leeds NIHR Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit</a>.</p>
<p>To submit an application in this research area please complete an <a href="https://studentservices.leeds.ac.uk/pls/banprod/bwskalog_uol.P_DispLoginNon" target="_blank">online application form</a> and submit this alongside a research proposal, a full academic CV, degree transcripts (or marks so far if still studying) and degree certificates. If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the Faculty’s minimum <a href="https://medicinehealth.leeds.ac.uk/faculty-graduate-school/doc/entry-requirements-1" target="_blank">English language requirements</a>.</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>For further information please contact the Graduate School Office<br /> e: <a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="mailto:fmhpgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fmhpgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk</a>, t: +44 (0)113 343 8221.</p>
<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Linked project opportunities</h2>