Fully Funded PhD in Multiscale Imaging and Mechanics of Osteoarthritis University College London in United Kingdom

Fully funded PhD studentship in Multiscale Imaging and Mechanics of Osteoarthritis at University College London (UCL), in collaboration with the Royal Veterinary College and the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF).

The project sits at the intersection of biomechanics, advanced X-ray imaging, computational modelling, image analysis, and osteoarthritis biology. The successful student will join the Multiscale X-ray Imaging Lab / MXILab and investigate how joint microarchitecture drives mechanical dysfunction in knee osteoarthritis.

Research activities include ultra-high-resolution HiP-CT imaging at ESRF, ex vivo loading experiments on human knees and large animal joints, Digital Volume Correlation (DVC) to quantify strain fields, image reconstruction, registration, segmentation, and integration of large volumetric datasets with machine learning and computational models.

Supervisory expertise spans imaging, mechanics, modelling, and musculoskeletal biology, including Prof. Peter D. Lee, Prof. Ryo Torii, Prof. Andrew Pitsillides, and support from Dr Aikta Sharma and Dr Chen.

Eligibility: applicants should have, or expect to achieve, a first-class degree in a relevant discipline such as biomechanical engineering, mechanical engineering, biophysics, or a related field. Strong biomechanics knowledge, engineering/design skills, and interest in biomedical imaging and coding are desirable. UCL English language requirements apply for non-native English speakers.

Funding: fully funded for Home/UK tuition fees and a maintenance stipend for 3.5 years. International applicants may be considered, but must cover any tuition fee difference above the Home rate.

Application: contact Prof. Peter D. Lee first with a statement of suitability and CV, then submit a formal PhD application through UCL. The project start date is 01 October 2026.