PhD Studentship in Mechanical Engineering: Engineering a Synovium-on-a-Chip Platform for Human-Relevant Inflammation Studies Newcastle University in United Kingdom

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

This fully funded PhD studentship at Newcastle University offers an exciting opportunity to engineer a Synovium-on-a-Chip platform for advanced human-relevant inflammation studies. The project integrates cutting-edge 3D bioprinting, microfluidic engineering, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to create a dynamic, perfused system that closely mimics the human synovial environment. This innovative platform will enable researchers to investigate how gut-derived immune signals influence joint inflammation, providing a powerful tool for disease modelling and drug discovery.

As a PhD student, you will join a multidisciplinary team and work under the supervision of Dr. Priscila Melo, Dr. Francesco Zonta, and Prof. Catharien Hilkens. The research will involve practical experience in microfluidics, CAD, CFD modelling, cell culture, biomaterials, and biological assay techniques. You will develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and gain experience working both independently and collaboratively across disciplines. The studentship is part of the prestigious iCASE programme, which includes a three-month placement at Aelius Biotech, offering valuable exposure to translational research, regulatory pathways, and commercialisation processes.

The award covers 100% of tuition fees and provides a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate), with additional project costs supported. The programme is sponsored by EPSRC and runs for four years, starting on 1st October 2026. Applicants must hold at least a 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject. Prior experience in microfluidics, CAD, CFD modelling, cell culture, biomaterials, or biological assay techniques is highly desirable. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential. A Masters qualification is not required if you have a minimum 2:1 degree or can demonstrate equivalent experience. For international applicants, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all sub-skills) is required, and ATAS clearance may be necessary.

To apply, complete the required personal statement document and upload it with your application via the Newcastle University Apply to Newcastle Portal. Select 'PhD Mechanical and Systems Engineering (full time) - MECH8090 (FT)' as your programme, enter the studentship code DLA2605, and use the provided template for your personal statement. No separate research proposal is needed. For further information or advice, contact Dr. Priscila Melo at [email protected] or [email protected].

This studentship is ideal for candidates passionate about engineering, biomedical innovation, and translational research, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation disease models and therapeutic strategies.