Clinical Materials
BSc (B830)
Overview
The intercalated BSc in Clinical Materials deals with the application of materials in the clinical environment for both medical and dental procedures. The success or failure of many clinical procedures depends on the interaction between the material and the patient which is additionally influenced by the physiological environment. These interactions are examined in detail during the course. Dental applications include development of non amalgam dental fillings, denture materials and soft linings for dentures and oral delivery of drugs. In orthopaedics, metals, polymers and ceramics are used for joint replacements. However, recent developments utilise porous ceramics as bone grafts. In ophthalmology, applications include contact lenses, pressure controlled drains for the treatment of drug resistant glaucoma and intra-ocular lenses. In cardiovascular surgery, heart valves and vascular prostheses have been used for several years, but recent advances include shape memory alloys for expandable stents delivered by non-invasive techniques. In urology, non fouling catheters are urgently required. Many other branches of medicine and surgery rely on devices made of materials. The course is academically rigorous and students will take five level 6 taught courses during the academic year.
Course aims
to develop a greater understanding in chemistry, structure and mechanics for successful material developments in clinical applications.
strategic evaluation of biocompatibility and the most appropriate techniques for its assessment.
You will choose four optional courses in semester A or B. These include:
- Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
- Nanotechnology and nanomedicine
- Surfaces and interfaces in biomedical materials
- Applied dental materials
- Science of biocompatibility
- Chemical and biological sensors
- Advanced materials characterisation techniques
You will undertake an extensive research project worth four units, alongside leading research teams in biomedical engineering and materials. The research project accounts for half of the final mark and its highly likely your work will contribute to a conference presentation and publication.