2017 Funded MSc by Research Studentship: Optimisation of the manufacturing processes for polymer microneedles

This scholarships is part funded by the Welsh Government’s European Social Fund (ESF) convergence programme for West Wales and the Valleys.*

Swansea University is a UK top 30 institution for research excellence (Research Excellence Framework 2014), and has been named Welsh University of the Year 2017 by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide. 

Delivery of therapeutic substances though the outer layer of skin through microneedles is a rapidly expanding pain free alternative to traditional hypodermic needles. Innoture Medical Technology Limited have a patented technique for large-scale manufacture of microneedles which has been refined through empirical testing. This project will explore the fundamental mechanics of the process so that it can be made more predictable and can be further optimised. This project will combine production testing, via stencil printing and microscopy, with theory so that the process can also be made more robust and flexible to produce a greater variety of microneedles depending on the application.

The MSc will be conducted at College of Engineering, Swansea University a Top 10 UK University for Engineering Research (REF 2014). The successful candidate will also work closely with Innoture in their Research and Development facility based in Swansea University.

The scholarship provides 1 year funding with a 3 month period to complete the thesis. The achievement of a postgraduate skills development award, PSDA, is compulsory for each KESS II scholar and is based on a 30 credit award.

Eligibility

Essential Criteria

Academic requirements:

Candidates should have an undergraduate degree in engineering or physical sciences, with a 2.1 or above.

Residency criteria: Candidates should be eligible for UK/EU Fees.

Additional Funding Information

The studentship covers the full cost of UK/EU tuition fees, plus a stipend. The bursary will be limited to a maximum of £11,472 p.a. dependent upon the applicant’s financial circumstances.

There will also be additional funds available for research expenses.

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