PhD Research Studentships
Development of scar-on-a-chip in vitro model systems using 3D bioprinting
| Supervisor: | Marco PENSALFINI |
| Apply by: | 5 July 2025 |
| Start in: | September (Semester 1) |
Description
Wounding of the dermis triggers a well-coordinated repair programme involving precise biochemical and physical events, which allow the quick restoration of our skin’s barrier function. However, even in physiological healing, the original tissue microstructure, morphology, and deformability are permanently lost, leading to a visible – and often perceivable – scar.
Recently, we were among the first to quantify skin wound deformability in physiological conditions across healing time points [1, 2]. This information, alongside published biochemical data, allowed us to calibrate in silico wound healing models linking scar stiffness and size to wound bed deformability and tissue mechanobiology [3]. While validation of these predictions using in vivo data remains challenging, in vitro model systems offer viable, easily tuneable alternatives to test, refine, and ultimately validate computational models in order to maximise their reliability.
This project will leverage state-of-the-art bioprinting technology to engineer biomechanically graded scar-on-a-chip models recapitulating interfaces between unwounded and scar tissues. By enabling rigorous spatio-temporal quantifications of cell migration, new tissue deposition, and mechanobiological pathway activation, these in vitro systems will help elucidate the mechanisms controlling scar size in soft tissues in physio-pathological settings. Ultimately, we expect our scar-on-chip models to support the rational development of anti-scarring treatments as well as regenerative medicine approaches.
Candidate specification:
The skills, qualifications, and interests listed below are highly desirable for this project:
- MSc/MEng in Biomedical Engineering
- Previous exposure to academic or industrial research, ideally with a biomedical focus
- An interest in applying additive manufacturing technology to biomedical systems (e.g., 3D bioprinting)
- Previous laboratory experience or an interest to develop corresponding skills throughout the project
- Previous exposure to the use of computer codes in the biomedical (or a closely related) area
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to fine tune the project based on individual interests and skills.
Relevant Bibliography:
[1] Pensalfini et al., Acta Biomater 65, 2018. DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.10.021
[2] Wietecha, Pensalfini et al., Nat Commun 11, 2020. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16409-z
[3] Pensalfini & Buganza-Tepole, PLoS Comput Biol 19, 2023. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1010902
We are broadly interested in the interplay of multiscale mechanics and tissue regulation, with a specific focus on largely deformable materials relying on fibre networks, such as several biological tissues, polymers, and textiles. A core area of interest directly relevant to this PhD project is the analysis of tissue repair and regeneration mechanisms using a multiscale biomechanics approach. We are committed to offering an inclusive and collaborative research and learning environment that focuses on the personal development of all members. Informal enquiries about potential applications are most welcome and shall be directed to Dr. Pensalfini (contact details provided below).
Funding
Self-funded
Eligibility
- The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
- If English is not your first language, you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of minimum score of 6.0 in each of Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking).
- Candidates are expected to start in September (Semester 1).
Contact
For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Marco PENSALFINI.
Apply
Start an application for this studentship and for entry onto the PhD Medical Engineering full-time programme (Semester 1 / September start):
Please be sure to quote the reference "SEMS-PHD-670" to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.
| Related website: | https://www.sems.qmul.ac.uk/staff/m.pensalfini | |
| SEMS Research Centre: | ||
| Keywords: | Biophysics, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Polymers, Biomechanics, Medicine - Other, Tissue Engineering |