PhD studentship in Mechanical: Bioprinted 3D In Vitro Cardiac Models

Award Summary

100% fees covered, and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate). Additional project costs will also be provided. 

Overview

In vitro models of cardiac tissue are synthetic tissues produced in the lab which allow for the development of organs and the treatment of diseases to be studied. They are produced using cells and biomaterials and are a key part of the drug development pathway for all new drugs. However, current models have some limitations in terms of how well they replicate the responses seen in people. 3D bioprinting techniques are an exciting set of fabrication technologies which build on the principles of 3D printing, but which can process cells and other biological materials. When used in conjunction with other biofabrication techniques they offer a new approach to the development of in vitro models which offers great potential in the development of more effective models which can better evaluate new therapies. This PhD project will focus on the use of bioprinting and biofabrication techniques to create novel in vitro models of cardiac tissue. The project will involve using new biofabrication technologies to create cardiac in vitro models, and a range of biological characterisation techniques to assess their behaviour.  

The project builds on previous work which has seen the group develop, patent and spin-out a new bioprinting technology called reactive jet impingement. The group has then integrated this bioprinting technique alongside other technologies to produce in vitro models as part of a European consortium which is studying new treatments for cardiac conditions. The project is interdisciplinary, with an interdisciplinary supervision team led by Professor Kenny Dalgarno, and the successful candidate will be trained in developing and using new processing technologies and in the biological assessment of tissue engineered in vitro models, with the training tailored to the background of the successful applicant.  

Number Of Awards

1

Start Date

1st October 2026

Award Duration

4 Years

Application Closing Date

18th February 2026

Sponsor

EPSRC  

Supervisors

Kenny Dalgarno, Jason Gill, Lyle Armstrong 

Eligibility Criteria

We are adopting a contextual admissions process. This means we will consider other key competencies and experience alongside your academic qualifications. An example can be found here. 

A minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed PhD project is our standard entry, however we place value on prior experience, enthusiasm for research, and the ability to think and work independently. Excellent Analytical skills and strong verbal and written communication skills are also essential requirements. A Masters qualification may not be required if you have a minimum 2:1 degree or can evidence alternative experience in a work or research-based project. If you have alternative qualifications or experience, please contact us to discuss flexibilities and request an exemption.  

Applicants whose first language is not English require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub-skills. International applicants may require an ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate prior to obtaining their visa and to study on this programme. 

How to apply 

For information on how to apply, please see Postgraduate Funding Search | Newcastle University

Contact Details

Enquiries should be directed to Kenny Dalgarno at (kenny.dalgarno@newcastle.ac.uk). You can also contact: doctoral.awards@ncl.ac.uk for independent advice on your application. 

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