PhD Studentship: Microfabricated Surfaces for Enhanced Electro-mechanical Mucoadhesion

The small intestine is a highly vascularized organ ideal for sustained drug delivery and physiological sensing. However, its inner surface presents formidable challenges: a continuous mucus layer (turnover ~24–48 h), constant peristaltic shear, fluctuating fluid volumes and digestive enzymes. Patches utilising mucoadhesive substances adhere to mucus but are rapidly washed away with the mucus turnover. Likewise, ingestible devices often transit in hours. Recent studies emphasize that mechanical and physical adhesion strategies can dramatically extend GI residence: for example, villi-mimicking micropost arrays and remora-inspired suction discs have been shown to anchor to intestinal mucosa for days. This project will explore microtextured, non-chemical adhesive surfaces, leveraging mechanical and electrostatic forces, to develop a textured surface that binds to the mucosa of the small intestine longer than state-of-the-art. This project will involve Multiphysics computer simulation, microfabrication using methods such as soft lithography and in-vitro testing on both artificial mucosal simulants and ex-vivo tissue. This project is ideally suited to a candidate with a good background in Mechanical Engineering (2:1 and above).

The University is uniquely positioned to benefit any applicant interested in a future career in healthcare technology. The University emphasises the clinical translation of innovative research to ensure real-world impact through the Healthcare Technologies Institute and the Precision Healthcare Technology Accelerator. The School of Engineering also has an established Medical Engineering research group with links to several SME and multinational medical device companies.

The candidate will be part of a diverse, international team. We welcome applications from all qualified applicants and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups in Engineering including, but not limited to, women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic.

Funding notes:

Applications are sought from highly motivated students, eligible for home fee status, graduating with first degree (2:1 or higher) in engineering (and preferably a MSci/MEng degree). Home fee status covers UK citizens, citizens of the Republic of Ireland and EU citizens with settled status in the UK. Funding is awarded by the School on a competitive basis, depending on the strength of the applicant. The funding will cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for 3.5 years. For details of the funding available and advice on making your application, please contact: G.Cummins@bham.ac.uk  with your CV and degree transcript.

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