Programme description

Our PhD/MPhil Biomaterials Science and Dental Technology programme enables you to undertake a research project that will improve understanding of Biomaterials Science and Dental Technology.

The area of biomaterials science and dental technology covers many biomaterials for operative dentistry, prosthodontics, endodontics, orthodontics, and oral surgery, plus research on orthopaedic bone cements.

Special interests include photo-polymerization phenomena, adhesion, visco-elastic behaviour, surface analysis, X-ray microtomography and a wide range of composite biomaterial behaviour.

The Biomaterials Science laboratories are well equipped with modern instrumentation for research in this field. They are at the centre of our large campus, with access to many other special instruments and expertise in, for example, photon science, chemistry, cell biology and materials science.

We use multiple techniques, such as experimental and computational biomechanics and imaging or spectroscopic probes of their underlying micro/nano-scale structure and time-dependent properties. This allows an enhanced mechanistic understanding of reasons for their clinical success or failure.

Other areas of interest include implant surface characteristics, bioglass formation and properties and dentine occlusion.

Teaching and learning

PhD/MPhil programmes are based on individual research projects that last three to four years (PhD) or one year (MPhil), working with a specific Primary Supervisor and Co-Supervisor(s).

Applicants are specifically matched with a Primary Supervisor and individual project based on their research interests and background.

Career opportunities

Your postgraduate research degree will open up a range of career opportunities after you graduate.