Open PhD position: Bio-based nanocomposite hydrogels and aerogels for osteo-articular applications

    CEMEF PhD thesis: Bio-based nanocomposite hydrogels and aerogels for osteo-articular applications.

    Global objective of work

    The objective of the proposed project is to prepare hydrogels and aerogels (i.e. wet and dry polymer networks) as resorbable tissue engineering matrices whose chemical, microstructural and mechanical characteristics can be adjusted to meet the needs of the targeted osteo-articular applications.

    Context

    A major need exists to improve the treatment of bone trauma and osteo-articular pathologies such as osteoarthritis, which are among the leading causes of disability and loss of quality of life in the world. These health issues are closely linked to the damage or degeneration of osteo-articular tissues. The improvement of existing therapies is based on the development of innovative materials providing clinicians with new solutions for the reconstruction of these tissues. However, there is currently a lack of multifunctional materials that are hydrated, biodegradable, mechanically competent and capable of providing a therapeutic solution to the mentioned clinical challenges.

    Detailed presentation

    Biomaterials will be fabricated by combining matrices of bio-based polymers and inorganic fillers promoting osseointegration. The work will consist of formulation, making gels and aerogels and their characterization (rheological and mechanical properties, porosity, morphology), and biomedical evaluation of the new materials (including cytotoxicity studies). Modeling tools, including numerical and multiscale ones, will be used for microstructure optimization purposes. This highly interdisciplinary project is located at the interface of materials science, numerical modelling and biomedical applications. The project will be carried out in two laboratories: (1) the majority of the work will be performed in the Center for Materials Forming (CEMEF) of Mines Paris, which has significant expertise in the processing, forming and modeling of polymer-based materials, including bio-based hydrogels and aerogels, and (2) secondments will take place in the Health Engineering Center of Mines Saint-Étienne, which has extensive experience in the biological evaluation of biomaterials for osteo-articular applications.

    References:
    - C. Chartier, S. Buwalda, … T. Budtova, “Tuning the properties of porous chitosan: Aerogels and cryogels”, International Journal of Biological Macromolecules 202, 215–223 (2022)
    - S. Buwalda, ..., W.E. Hennink, “Hydrogels in a historical perspective - From simple networks to smart materials” Journal of Controlled Release 190, 254–273 (2014)
    - Y. Boussès, N. Brulat-Bouchard, P.-O. Bouchard, Y. Tillier, “A numerical, theoretical and experimental study of the effect of thermocycling on the matrix-filler interface of dental restorative materials”, Dental Materials 37, 772–782 (2021)

    Candidate profile and skills

    Knowledge in materials science, polymers as well as numerical modelling; fluent in English; highly motivated; pro-active; MSc thesis/Engineering school completed

    Apply to this PhD offer

    General informations

    • Industrial field: Mechanics and Materials
    • Location: Mines Paris - CEMEF, Sophia Antipolis
    • Keywords: Polymers, gels, physico-chemical and mechanical properties, biomaterials, numerical modelling, osteo-articular applications.
    • Project type/ cooperation: Project financed by the Carnot M.I.N.E.S. institute. Collaboration between CEMEF (Mines Paris-PSL, Sophia Antipolis) and the Health Engineering Center (Mines Saint-Étienne).
    • Duration: 3 years

    CEMEF team/Supervisors

    Team: Biobased Polymers and Composites; Computational Solid Mechanics.
    Thesis directors: Dr. T. Budtova, Dr. Y. Tillier
    Co-supervisors: Dr. S. Buwalda, Dr. D. Eglin (Mines Saint-Étienne)

    To apply

    • papers requiered to apply:
    • your most recent CV
    • Detailed, official proof of your grades during your most recent studies(maximum 3)
    • One or more references from professors or heads of training programmes

    Subject description :

    Information! Application only on the CEMEF website.
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