PhD studentship to start in January 2014 (or earlier if possible)
Department of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science
Based in Milton Keynes
We already have three new PhD students starting in the Department in October 2013 and have now secured funding for another four studentships.Â
The three-year research studentships provide a maintenance grant of £13,726 per year (2013 rate) and all academic fees are covered.Â
The department has a thriving postgraduate community and the postgraduate training programme provides a full range of courses covering: research techniques, scientific methods, information technology, communication and interpersonal skills, which are tailored to the needs of each student.
Project Title: Modelling cell orientation in artificial tissues
Project Supervisors: Jim Hague, James Phillips, Jane Loughlin (Open University)
Artificial tissue has the potential to revolutionise healthcare, however the cells in such tissue are often poorly aligned and can mimic scar tissue. Experimentalists at the Open University have developed tissue engineering technology to achieve alignment in simple artificial tissue constructs. The purpose of this theoretical biophysics project is to develop predictive models for cell alignment that can be used to understand and then guide experimental attempts to grow more complex artificial tissues. The project will make extensive use of ideas from statistical physics and biomechanics, so the applicant should have a good first degree in Physics, Mathematics or a related discipline, should have good mathematical skills, would ideally be good at computer programming and have an interest in biological systems. The project will start as soon as possible after October 1st 2013.
For informal enquiries about this project, please contact Dr Jim Hague, Department of Physical Sciences, at The Open University by email on jim.hague@open.ac.uk
Please send an email/letter stating the project you are interested in, your CV and a completed application form, to be found here: http://www.open.ac.uk/research/main/research-careers/research-students/forms-and-guidance-notes to the following mailbox: science-research-degrees@open.ac.uk by Friday, October 18th or by post to the Research Co-ordinator, Science Deanery, K Block, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA.
Shortlisting will take place during the week of October 21st with the interviews following during the week of November 4th.
Closing Date: October 18th, 2013Â
To apply, please click the Apply button below.