Research Project 9
Short description
This project deals with -Development of bacteriophage-based therapies for infection prevention in bone conduction hearing implants.
- Host institution: KLINIKUM DER UNIVERSITÄT REGENSBURG (UHREG), Germany
Department: Trauma Surgery - Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Martijn Riool, e-mail: Martijn.Riool@klinik.uni-regensburg.de
- More contact: Dr. Raphaëlle Youf, e-mail: Raphaelle.Youf@klinik.uni-regensburg.de
Gopala-Krishna Mannala, e-mail: Gopala-Krishna.Mannala@klinik.uni-regensburg.de - DC 9: NN
- Learn more about this position at EURAXESS
Project Description
Short description: This PhD project focuses on the biological evaluation of hydrogel-based systems designed for the localized delivery of bacteriophages or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to treat bacterial infections associated with bone conduction hearing implants (BCHI). These delivery systems will be applied to both metallic and polymeric surfaces, including components such as polymer healing caps, percutaneous titanium abutments, and silicone-based transcutaneous devices.
Objectives
The project will investigate phage and AMP stability, release kinetics, and antibacterial efficacy against biofilm-forming pathogens using advanced in vitro infection models that closely mimic physiological conditions. Complementary in vivo studies will assess therapeutic efficacy and host immune responses. Conducted in close collaboration with clinical and biomaterials experts, including Oticon Medical (Dr. Martin Johansson), this interdisciplinary project aims to advance the development of targeted antimicrobial therapies to improve infection management in BCHI patients and reduce implant-related complications.
Training and mobility:
Research secondments at SHIELD partner institutions:
- Oticon Medical: Training on implant design & clinical challenges – Martin Johansson
- TUD: Hydrogel-based phage delivery systems – Michael Gelinski