Flinders and Additive Surgical Industry PhD Scholarship: Biomedical Engineering

Change lives and change the world with impactful PhD research co-funded by Flinders and Additive Surgical

• Receive a $33,990 per annum (indexed annually) scholarship tax free, for up to 3.5 years
• Apply your research skills during an internship with Additive Surgical

Flinders University and Additive Surgical are offering an Industry PhD Scholarship to undertake innovative research into the development of an innovative biomimetic lattice structure for spinal implants.

The Medical Device Research Institute (MDRI) and Additive Surgical are collaborating on this research project to develop and validate an innovative biomimetic lattice structure for spinal implants that will replicate natural bone structure and properties to improve bone ingrowth, and reduce stress shielding and subsidence to improve clinical outcomes.  Bringing significant industry experience to the project, Additive Surgical is an Australian owned medical device manufacturer that works closely with clinicians and health care providers to deliver the highest quality, innovative medical devices to help patients live their best lives. They drive medical device innovation by focusing on developing new medical device applications and validating state-of-the-art additive manufacturing technologies.  The MDRI is also committed to the development of innovative medical device technologies and has complimentary research strengths in Biomedical Engineering.  Together we are seeking innovative solutions to this challenging area of research through this PhD project. 

This inspiring project involves undertaking research to:

• Further develop the technology of interbody fusion devices
• Investigate suitable biomimetic lattices for spinal implants
• Design new biomimetic lattices for spinal implants
• Test and validate the performance and function of biomimetic lattices against current international/national Standards and contribute to new Standards

The Flinders Industry PhD Scholarship also includes an internship of at least 60 full-time equivalent days, agreed to in written form within 18 months of candidature, undertaken and completed prior to completion of the PhD, during which you will be embedded with the Industry Partner team, developing your network, and gaining insight into the everyday research practices of an industry-leading/service driven organisation.

This Scholarship offers:

• $33,990 (2024 full-time rate, indexed annually) per annum tax free, for up to 3.5 years
• A 3-month industry internship allowing you to apply your research into practice during candidature
• Access to academic and industry expertise through joint supervision
• A supportive environment to learn leading-edge research methods and become an expert in your area
• The opportunity to manage a complex research project and respond innovatively to challenges
• A collaborative research community where you can enhance your skills and build your network to progress your research career

To be eligible for the Scholarship you will need:

• to be an Australian citizen, New Zealand citizen, an Australian permanent resident or have, or are eligible to apply for, a relevant international visa; and
• meet Flinders University PhD admission requirements – an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A or equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8), or evidence of equivalent research experience, such as refereed publications or significant experience as a lead researcher; and
• Scholarship recipients are expected to take up their studies as soon as practicable within a timeframe specified by the Office of Graduate Research in consultation with the Industry Partner, up to maximum of 3 months from the time of acceptance of the scholarship.  In exceptional circumstances and with approval of the Industry Partner and the University, this time may be extended to 6 months.

It is desirable for applicants to also have:

• An Australian Honours degree or equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8) in Biomedical/Biomechanical Engineering (or a related field)
• Experience in experimental biomechanical testing techniques in orthopaedic/spine biomechanics or a related area
• Experience in the design and application of experimental apparatus for testing of biological tissues
• Experience in working with animal and/or cadaver tissues
• Experience in data analysis techniques, particularly using Matlab
• An ability to develop and maintain productive relationships with academic and industrial partners
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills for ill-defined engineering challenges
• A capacity to communicate research concepts to technical and non-technical audiences
• Project management skills, including high level organisational and time management skills, ability to manage competing priorities and excellent record keeping
• Experience in using initiative, working with minimal supervision and ability to prioritise tasks to achieve project objectives within timelines