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Mechanical Engineering
Location: Highfield Campus
Closing Date: Wednesday 31 August 2022
Reference: 1724822DA
Supervisory Team: Dr. Richard Cook, Prof. Robert Wood, Prof. John McBride and Dr, Ursula McDonnell (GSK)
Tribological mode of action of spherical silica in a tooth brushing contact
Project description
Tooth brushing is essential for the maintenance of oral health and in particular the prevention of Caries. The brushing process is a complex tribological contact which is influenced by a number of interrelated variables combining to cause the abrasion which results in the cleaning of the tooth surface. This process sits at a precipice where abrasion is required for cleaning but also has the potential to abrade and irreversibly damage the enamel surface. The ultimate goal in tooth paste development is a paste capable of high levels of stain removal with no enamel abrasion. Recent work has indicated that micronized spherical silica has the potential to reduce enamel and dentine abrasion while providing an enhanced level of cleaning, compared to standard angular silica.
In this PhD, supported by GSK, you will join the national centre for advanced tribology at Southampton (nCATS). You will have the opportunity to use both nanoscale and macroscale tribological testing in partnership with high resolution imaging techniques to study the micro, meso and macro scale abrasion of dentine and enamel, and the interactions between the tissue microstructures and damage mechanisms. Through single particle tests you will build an understanding of the contact conditions required to remove surface stains but also the conditions to cause damage to both tissues. These will then be linked to the surface roughness and topography changes seen in macro-scale brushing simulations. This will provide the basis for a study to identify the optimum spherical silica containing paste formulation for enhanced plaque removal without wear.
You will be cosupervised by a member of the Oral Health R&D team at GSK, work directly with members of the team during the project and will have the opportunity to spend 3 months with GSK during the course of the project.
Entry Requirements
A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).
Closing date: 31 August 2022 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.
Funding: For UK students only, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £18,285 tax-free per annum for up to 4 years.
How To Apply
Applications should be made online. Select programme type (Research), 2022/23, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Richard Cook
Applications should include:
Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page
For further information please contact: [email protected]
The School of Choose an item. is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
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