UQ-HBI PhD scholarship: Development of 3D printed Metal Scaffold to enhance bone in-growth

This is a PhD position is available within The University of Queensland (UQ) School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering and will be a part of the orthopaedics program within HBI.

Our research aims will be demonstrated in a progressively escalating research strategy, to investigate the characteristics of mechanical strength and bone ingrowth into this structure as a 3D printed scaffold/implant incorporating a unique biomimetic hexanoid design.

Specifically, this project will entail preliminary implant design/development, mechanical optimization using finite element analysis (FEA), mechanical testing to confirm its structural integrity, and mathematical characterization and FEA of bone in-growth. This strategy will be introduced gradually over a four-year structured program, advancing complexity only after satisfying quality metrics specific to the preceding stages.

This project also aims to explore the manufacturability and mechanical properties of a series of novel scaffold structures for use in hard tissue engineering applications using a selective laser melting process. Using the mechanical testing facilities at UQ, the mechanical properties of the fabricated structures will be assessed with uni-axial testing methods initially. The biomechanical aspects will be addressed by incorporating a truss design within actual components and custom experimental setups.