Marie Sklodowska-Curie PhD student position in 3D-printing of magnesium alloys for biomedical applications

Published: 2021-01-14

Uppsala University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with a strong international standing. Our ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a long-term difference in society. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. Uppsala University has 45,000 students, 7,000 employees and a turnover of SEK 7 billion.

Admission to PhD education in Engineering Sciences with Specialization in Materials Science.

The BioTrib Marie Sklodowska-Curie Innovative Training Network focuses on Advanced Research Training for the Biotribology of Natural and Artificial Joints in the 21st Century. It is a newly funded European project, co-ordinated by the University of Leeds, with the aim to develop a unique, bioengineering-based, integrated approach to the development of early career researchers as future research and innovation leaders across interdisciplinary and inter-sectoral domains. The network consists of 5 core universities in Europe, and another 11 partner organisations, from academia, industry as well as the healthcare sector.

You will be based in professor Cecilia Persson's research group, which specializes in developing and evaluating new biomaterials for future use in primarily orthopedics (http://www.materialvetenskap.uu.se/bms/).

Project description: Magnesium-based alloys have recently made it into clinics as a degradable material, adequate for fracture fixation, e.g. in the foot. This is the result of long-term studies developing alloys with a minimal negative influence on surrounding tissues during degradation. In this project we want to further improve the functioning of these types of alloys by exploring the incorporation of other bioactive elements, as well as the possibilities for printing them using a controlled process in a powder bed fusion machine. In this way, we envisage being able to print structures similar to those marketed as trabecular metal although in this case the structures are degradable and hence presumably more adequate for patients with no underlying bone deficiency pathology. The degradability may also decrease the risk for implant-associated infections over time. One of the objectives are to develop a magnesium-based powder suitable for 3D-printing and bone reconstructive applications, based on numerical studies. Further, to demonstrate printability of the material using powder bed fusion machine, and finally to evaluate the mechanical and degradative properties in relation to an application as bone reconstructive material for joint implant anchorage in selected patients, in particular revision patients, using advanced microscopy and mechanical testing. The position includes secondments to other partners in the consortium.

Work Duties: The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

The PhD candidate is expected to:

• Conduct research focused on the development of novel, 3D-printable materials for biomedical applications.
• Developing initiative, creativity and judgement in applying appropriate approaches to research activities.
• Ensure good day-to-day progress of work in development and analysis, and maintaining good records.
• Actively participate in all relevant research activities organized by the network as advised by the supervisors.
• Writing up results for publication and attending suitable conferences for their dissemination, attend meetings as required to discuss the project which could involve occasional international travel.

These duties provide a framework for the role and should not be regarded as a definitive list. Other reasonable duties may be required consistent with the grade of the post.

The research studies will be carried out in collaboration between the research institute Swerim AB and Uppsala University.

Qualification required: MSc degree or equivalent in materials science / materials engineering, engineering physics, biomedical engineering or similar, with a strong focus on materials. Those getting their degree in Spring 2021 are also welcome to apply.

• Ability to work both independently and also as part of a larger team of researchers, including interaction with the research group and BioTrib ITN and engaging in knowledge-transfer activities where appropriate and feasible.

Self-motivation and good time management and planning skills Good written and verbal communication skills in English Good presentation and communication skills A commitment to your own continuous professional development.

Admission requirements: A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programs if he or she:

• Has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• Has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• Has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Rules governing PhD student candidates are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala university's rules and guidelines http://regler.uu.se.

The eligibility criteria for this Marie Skodowska-Curie PhD position are as follows:

• The applicant must, at the date of recruitment, be in the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of their research careers and have not been awarded a doctoral degree. This is measured from the date when they obtained the undergraduate degree.
• The applicant must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date. Compulsory national service, short stays such as holidays, and time spent as part of a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention are not taken into account.

The advertised project will be carried out by a PhD student (“Early-stage Researcher”) at Uppsala University over a period of 42-48 months, in addition departmental duties at a level of at most 20% (typically teaching) will be expected.

Instructions for Application: Applications should include:

• Cover letter, including a brief description of experience relevant to the position and motivation (max. 2 pages).
• CV with list of publications (if any).
• Master thesis (or a draft thereof), copies of diplomas, certificates (including a list of courses and grades) and other relevant documents should be included
• contact information to at least two reference persons. Letter(s) of recommendation are encouraged.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.

Starting date: To be negotiated, but at the latest September 2021.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100%.

For further information about the position please contact: Dr Alexandra Davydova (Alexandra.davydova@angstrom.uu.se).

Please submit your application by 30 April 2021, UFV-PA 2021/23.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.

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