About the project
The main aim of this research project is to investigate the use of ultrasound-responsive microbubbles as a means of antibiotic delivery in bone biofilms.
Bone disease has a cost to the UK economy of £5 billion per year. Surgeons attempt to repair bones and joints by conducting invasive surgery, including for example the implantation of prosthetics. This surgery is revolutionary for many but in a surprisingly high number of cases persistent and problematic complications prevent healing.
One of the main complications is tissue infection. Infections may occur because of the introduction of bacteria or other microorganisms into the body during a traumatic injury or surgery. These infections, which often involve the formation of biofilms, can take many months of antibiotic delivery to resolve due to poor penetrance of antibiotics.
In this PhD, we propose to use ultrasound-responsive microbubbles as a means of antibiotic delivery in bone biofilms. When microbubbles are exposed to ultrasound they expand and contract energetically. This can exert significant forces on things around them and is being exploited currently in clinical trials. Our idea is that this could help disrupt biofilms that form on or around bones, to enable better antibiotic penetration to treat bone infections.
You will work in an exciting multidisciplinary team at the University of Southampton with experts in bone repair, drug delivery, ultrasound technology and biofilm microbiology. You will also work closely with NHS consultant orthopaedic surgeons and microbiologists as the technology may be close to clinical application.
Funding for this project is offered by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Complex Integrated Systems for Defence & Security (CISDnS), which will recruit motivated and inquisitive candidates across the themes of digital, physical and biological systems to provide a diverse and interconnected cohort training environment. You can read more about the Centre and the training programme.
CISDnS is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break or are transitioning into a new role. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance.
