Nanoscale Additive Manufacturing of Buccal Microneedle Patches for Enhanced Trans-Mucosal Drug Transport Aston University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Aston University focuses on the nanoscale additive manufacturing of buccal microneedle patches to enhance trans-mucosal drug transport. Buccal drug delivery is a promising, non-invasive method for systemic administration of both small-molecule and biologic therapeutics, but its clinical utility is limited by the oral mucosa's poor permeability and enzymatic degradation. Microneedle (MN) technologies, well established in transdermal delivery, offer a compelling strategy to overcome these barriers, yet their application to buccal tissues remains underexplored.

The project aims to advance buccal drug delivery through the design, fabrication, and evaluation of highly precise microneedle patches produced using additive manufacturing techniques, including two-photon polymerisation (2PP) with the CELLINK Nanoscribe Quantum X bio 3D printer—the first of its kind in the UK. The research will engineer microneedle geometries optimized for buccal tissue insertion, mechanical resilience, and controlled drug release. By tailoring microstructures, the study will identify design parameters that enable reliable penetration of both keratinised and non-keratinised regions of the oral mucosa, minimizing patient discomfort and risk of adverse effects. A structured Design of Experiments (DOE) approach will be used for systematic optimization, and material selection will focus on biocompatible, photopolymerisable resins suitable for drug loading or forming drug-containing matrices.

The second objective is to investigate the capacity of these MN systems to deliver both small-molecule compounds and biologics. Encapsulation strategies—including matrix-loaded, dip-coated, and layered designs—will be evaluated for stability, release kinetics, and compatibility. In vitro permeation studies using buccal models will quantify enhancement in trans-mucosal transport, while analytical assays will assess formulation integrity post-fabrication and post-delivery. Anticipated outcomes include demonstrating how 2PP-engineered microneedle patches can significantly enhance buccal delivery of diverse therapeutics, providing a platform for future translational development of minimally invasive, patient-friendly buccal delivery platforms.

This position is based at Aston University's Birmingham campus. Candidates should be located within reasonable distance and able to visit regularly. The project covers Home tuition fees; Overseas applicants must pay the difference (£17,712 for 2026/7). Associated consumables costs should be discussed with the supervisor prior to application. Applicants must have a First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, or a First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree and a Merit or Distinction in a relevant Masters degree. Overseas qualifications will be considered if equivalent. Applications must include transcripts, research and personal statements, CV, two academic references, evidence of English proficiency, and a copy of passport. Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams.

For further information, contact Dr Craig Russell at [email protected]. Apply online via the provided link, selecting 'Research - Health Sciences' on the application form. Ensure all supporting documents are uploaded and discuss consumables costs with the supervisor before applying.