Dental Pulp Stem Cell–Advanced Biomaterial Constructs for Craniofacial Tissue Regeneration

Details

This laboratory-based project focuses on the regenerative potential of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) for craniofacial tissue engineering. We will isolate, characterize, and culture DPSCs to optimize proliferation, stemness, and lineage-specific differentiation under defined conditions. A core aim is to combine DPSCs with bioactive growth factors and advanced hydrogel vehicles to create injectable, clinically applicable constructs that enhance craniofacial regeneration. Cutting-edge culture systems will be employed, including dynamic flow culture to better mimic physiological shear stress, magnetic force–based cell manipulation to organize cells within 3D scaffolds, and controlled formation of DPSC cell clusters/spheroids to enhance cell–cell communication and regenerative signalling. These DPSC–hydrogel–growth factor constructs will be evaluated in vitro using 3D and organotypic models that recapitulate craniofacial tissue microenvironments, with detailed assessment of cellular behaviour, matrix deposition, and functional regeneration markers. Future work will progress to in vivo testing in relevant preclinical models to assess integration, vascularization, and functional restoration. This is a highly collaborative project involving academic laboratories, clinical researchers, and commercial partners, ensuring that tested materials and protocols are clinically relevant and industry aligned. The overarching goal is to generate robust preclinical data that inform product development, regulatory approval, and clinical adoption of safer, more durable, and biologically responsive dental materials. Ultimately, this project aims to generate robust preclinical data that support translational application of DPSC-based therapies within healthcare for the biological reconstruction of craniofacial defects.

Eligibility 

Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a minimum Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline. We are happy to consider candidates from both scientific and clinical backgrounds, provided they can demonstrate a strong academic record and clear motivation for lab‑based research. We look for evidence of research aptitude (e.g. previous projects, publications, audits, or dissertations), good written and spoken English, and the ability to commit the necessary time and resources to a laboratory‑based doctoral project. Subject areas are cell and molecular biology and regeneration.

Before you Apply

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application. 

How to Apply

To be considered for this project you MUST submit a formal online application form – on the application form select PhD Cell Biology Programme. Full details on how to apply can be found on the Website: How to apply for postgraduate research at The University of Manchester

If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team FBMH.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website: Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI | Postgraduate Research | Biology, Medicine and Health | University of Manchester

Funding Notes

Applications are invited from self-funded students. This project has a Band 3 (high) fee. Details of our different fee bands can be found on our website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/fees/.