PhD in Cartilage Tissue Engineering at Queen Mary University

Queen Mary University of London is one of the United Kingdom’s leading research‑intensive universities, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global impact. With state‑of‑the‑art facilities and strong industry links, QMUL provides an interdisciplinary research environment, particularly in the life and medical sciences.

This project focuses on directing the assembly of cell spheroids via 3D bioprinting for cartilage tissue engineering, targeting the recreation of the osteochondral unit—the critical interface between cartilage and bone. The research aims to produce tissues that closely resemble native counterparts, advancing our understanding of joint development, disease mechanisms such as osteoarthritis, and regenerative therapies.

The studentship is based in Dr Josephine Wu’s research group, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), starting September 2026 and lasting 42 months at the UKRI rate.

• Develop a framework for utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) spheroids as building blocks and screen factors that direct chondroprogenitor fate.
• Incorporate instructive factors into a bioprinting platform to spatially pattern cues with cell spheroids and assemble integrated osteochondral constructs.
• Validate engineered tissue models and investigate how disrupted cartilage–bone crosstalk contributes to osteoarthritis onset and progression.

• A good honours degree (minimum 2(i)) or a Master’s degree (MSc/MRes) in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field.
• A strong interest in tissue engineering, biomaterials, and regenerative medicine.
• Desirable experience in 3D (bio) printing, biomaterials, tissue engineering, and/or cell culture.
• A collaborative mindset, critical‑thinking skills, and motivation to engage in interdisciplinary research.
• For non‑native English speakers: a valid English language certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall, with at least 6.0 in each component.

• Final date to receive applications: 4 January 2026
• Envisioned start date:
  September 2026 (Semester
  1)
• Funding: EPSRC, 42 months at the UKRI rate
• Eligibility:
  Minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent;
  English proficiency as specified.
• For informal enquiries: please contact Dr Josephine Wu.
• Please refer to the official advertisement for application details.

Internship

Full‑time

Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Education

• Luxembourg – PhD in AI and Machine Learning for Biomedical Imaging at University of Luxembourg
• Canada – PhD in Structural Integrity of Aircraft Panels at Queen’s University or Royal…
• Germany – PhD in Xolographic Biofabrication at Heidelberg University
• USA – PhD in Advanced Materials Engineering at Kennesaw State University
• Germany – PhD in Biofabrication at University of Bayreuth

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