Via www.jobs.ac.uk. A fully funded 4-year PhD studentship entitled "Development of a new technique in osteoporosis classification for diagnosis and fracture prevention" is currently made available jointly by the Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering and the Department of Mechanical Engineering at University College London. Osteoporosis is considered as a progressive systemic disease characterised by a low bone mass and micro-architectural deterioration of bone tissue with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Providing an improved and earlier warning of fracture risk due to osteoporosis has the potential to significantly improve patients’ wellbeing.

The project will involve the development of a new technique in osteoporosis classification for diagnosis and fracture prevention. The research of the PhD student will benefit from the complementary expertise in the two departments to tackle this interdisciplinary research project. Innovative x-ray imaging techniques pioneered in the department of Medical Physics combined with the characterisation and structural modelling expertise in the department of Mechanical Engineering will be used to understand the functions and failure of bone for varying degrees of osteoporosis.

The 4-year studentship includes tuition fees and an annual stipend of £15,300 (tax free). The ideal candidate should have a strong background in Medical Physics, Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering or applied science area. Applicants should possess a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in this area. Further information and application details can be found at the website below. The PhD will commence in autumn 2009 or as soon as possible thereafter.

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