Research Project 12
Short description
Design and development of advanced antimicrobial polymers for therapeutic applications
- Host institution: ASHLAND SPECIALTIES IRELAND LIMITED (ASHLAND), Ireland - R & D Dept.
- Supervisor: Shona O’ Brien, External Technology R&D Manager | Life Sciences, shona.obrien@ashland.com
Or: Academic co-supervisor, Prof. Oran Kennedy, email: orankennedy@rcsi.ie
RCSI University of Medicin and Health Sciences - DC 12: NN
- Learn more about this position at EURAXESS
Project Description
DC12 will design and evaluate bioresorbable polymers with enhanced antimicrobial activity for use as antifouling coatings. The project involves innovative chemical and mechanical modifications to improve biocompatibility, tissue integration, and infection prevention. It includes in vitro and in vivo testing, with collaborations to study biofilm formation and preclinical performance, aiming to enable customizable, antimicrobial implant surfaces.
Objectives
his PhD project will focus on developing advanced surface patterning and coatings and evaluate preclinically their potential as protective barriers to inhibit bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation while maintaining biocompatibility and promoting tissue regeneration.
The doctoral candidate will develop bioresorbable polymers with controlled degradability, enhanced antimicrobial activity, and tunable mechanical properties suitable for clinical application
Research activities include:
- Material Synthesis: Develop novel bioresorbable polymers incorporating non-toxic antimicrobial agents.
- Surface Functionalisation: Apply chemical techniques to enhance surface biocompatibility and prevent bacterial adhesion
- Characterisation:
- Assess physical and mechanical properties
- Evaluate antimicrobial efficacy against clinically relevant pathogens
- Conduct in vitro biocompatibility
- Biological Testing:
- Perform in vitro and in vivo studies to assess tissue response and biofilm resistance
- Investigate biofilm formation and intracellular survival
Training and mobility:
Research secondments at SHIELD partner institutions:
- University College Dublin, Ireland
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Ireland
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Participation in specialised training workshops and international conferences.
Expected Results