Queen Mary University of London’s Centre for Predictive in vitro Models is recruiting PhD students for projects starting in September 2026. One highlighted project focuses on microfabrication at the interface with neuroscience and biology, aiming to develop advanced models for neurotoxicity testing and nerve repair. The research is highly interdisciplinary, combining bioengineering, neuroscience, biology, and materials science, and is conducted in collaboration with leading labs and industry partners such as DSTL, bit.bio, CELLINK, and Liqcreate.

The project, supervised by Professor Julien Gautrot (Biomaterials and Biointerfaces), Dr Isabel Palacios (Molecular Biology), Dr Patrick Pallier (Neuroscience), and Dr Christopher Chapman (Materials, Bioelectronics), will develop novel 3D brain models using cerebral organoids and multi-electrode arrays (MEAs). The aim is to create microfluidic platforms that integrate 3D MEAs for long-term culture, maturation, and functional neurotoxicity testing of cerebral organoids. Key objectives include chip engineering using DLP 3D printing and conductive polymers, organoid integration, and MEA-enabled neurotoxicity testing.

Applicants should have a strong background in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, biology, or related fields. Experience with microfabrication, 3D printing, molecular biology techniques, or neurobiology is desirable. The project offers an opportunity to work in a cutting-edge research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with both academic and industrial partners.

Funding details are not explicitly stated, but the position is part of the Centre for Doctoral Training, which typically provides funded PhD opportunities. Interested candidates should review the project details and application process via the provided links and prepare their application materials accordingly. The application deadline is August 1, 2026.