Publisher
source

Dr J Bright

1 year ago

Investigating the structural optimisation of bone through computational biomechanical modelling University of Hull in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Biomedical Engineering

Funding

Fully Funded

Deadline

Expired

Country flag

Country

United Kingdom

University

University of Hull

Social connections

How do I apply for this?

Sign in for free to reveal details, requirements, and source links.

Suggested positions

Keywords

Biomedical Engineering
Medicine
Biology
Zoology
Computational Biology
Veterinary Science
Bone Health
Computational Modelling
Biomechanics
Anatomy
Finite Element Analysis

About this position

Bones are structurally organised to be lightweight (to minimise energy expenditure during movement), but also have sufficient strength to withstand musculoskeletal and other environmental forces. This is often achieved through utilising a “sandwich” structure whereby a dense thin layer (cortical bone) creates a shell that is supported internally by a network of porous (trabecular) bone. The structure of cortical and trabecular bone is known to adapt to mechanical force, but how it adapts may vary with anatomical location and bone type.

The structural adaptation of bone in relation to mechanical force is often investigated through finite element analysis; a computational technique that can determine the stresses and strains in bones, and can also be used in conjunction with adaptive remodelling algorithms to predict an optimal structural arrangement for a given mechanical load. This project will investigate the structural adaptation of cortical and trabecular bone by using birds as a case study. Some bird bones are known to possess a heterogeneous cortical shell and a complex arrangement of internal trabecular bone. However, whether this structural arrangement is adapted to: 1) resist musculoskeletal forces; 2) make the bone lightweight for the purpose of flight; or 3) a combination of both, remains unknown. This project will initially characterise the structure of either skull, foot, and wing bones in birds through a histomorphometric analysis, and then create micro-finite element models to: 1) analyse the strains within the bone in relation to musculoskeletal forces; 2) use adaptive remodelling algorithms to predict the optimal bone (external and internal) structure to resist this loading. The predicted optimal bone structure will then be compared to the actual bone structure in flying and flightless birds to assess the extent to which the bone is adapted to the musculoskeletal forces vs weight reduction.

Funding details

Fully Funded

Ask ApplyKite AI

Start chatting
Can you summarize this position?
What qualifications are required for this position?
How should I prepare my application?

Professors