Research project 3

• Host institution: KLINIKUM DER UNIVERSITÄT REGENSBURG (UHREG), Germany 
  Department: Trauma Surgery
• Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Martijn Riool, 
  e-mail: Martijn.Riool@klinik.uni-regensburg.de
• DC 3: NN
• Learn more about this position at EURAXESS

Project Description

DC3 will investigate biofilm maturation and antibiotic tolerance on metal surfaces, including titanium and stainless steel. The focus will be on clinically relevant pathogens associated with orthopaedic device-related infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus. 

Objectives

This PhD project aims at investigating biofilm maturation and antibiotic tolerance on metal surfaces, including titanium and stainless steel. The focus will be on clinically relevant pathogens associated with orthopaedic device-related infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus. 

The project will be conducted in close collaboration with the AO Research Institute (ARI, Dr. Fintan Moriarty), ensuring strong translational and preclinical relevance. Advanced in vitro biofilm models that mimic physiological conditions will be used to quantify biomass, analyse gene expression, and characterize phenotypic changes linked to biofilm persistence and the transition to mature, drug-tolerant communities. 

As part of the project, in vivo infection models, such as Galleria mellonella larvae and mice, will be used to evaluate biofilm dissemination, systemic spread, and host immune responses, with particular attention to immune evasion and inflammation. By integrating molecular and cellular analyses with preclinical models, the project aims to advance understanding of biofilm-associated implant infections and support the development of clinically applicable antimicrobial strategies targeting resistant pathogens.

Training and mobility:

Research secondments at SHIELD partner institutions:

• CBE: Industrial-standard biofilm quantification assays – Garth James
• UCD: Advanced microscopy for biofilm architecture – Tadhg Ó Cróinín
• ARI: Rodent infection models for chronic biofilms – Fintan Moriarty
• Participation in specialised training workshops and international conferences.

Expected Results