Research News
Posted 2 February 2012
Post-doc Research Position at AIT to Investigate Solution to Meniscal Injuries
A new post-doctoral position at Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT) will seek to develop a polymer solution to meniscal injuries that effect 1.7 million people in the western world each year.
The meniscus is a rubbery, C-shaped disc that cushions the knee. A meniscal tear is usually caused by twisting or turning quickly, often with the foot planted while the knee is bent. These tears can occur when through heavy lifting or playing sports. As people get older, the meniscus also gets worn, which can cause it to tear more easily.
According to Dr James Kennedy, principal investigator, “the treatment of irreparable meniscal tears remains a major challenge for the orthopaedic community. One of the driving forces in this applied research is to develop artificial meniscuses which for the most part mimic the natural fibrocartilaginous tissue.”
The aim of this work, he said, is “to focus on the development of a novel moist biocompatible composite material to help repair or replace a torn meniscus. This polymeric device will match the mechanical and torsion properties of a natural meniscus.”
Applicants are currently being invited to carry out this 12-month research project. The position is funded by Enterprise Ireland and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) under their Technology Innovation Development Feasibility Study (TIDA) call. Applicants should have a PhD in (bio)chemistry, biomedical engineering or material science/polymer engineering or such relevant disciplines.
The closing date for applications is 2 March 2012. Further information is available online at www.ait.ie/research.
