PhD: Development of artificial saliva

• Principal investigator(s) Dr Shahnawaz Khijmatgar, Dr Gil Alberto Batista Gonçalves
• Research theme Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Population Health and Health Services

Saliva plays a fundamental role in maintaining oral health by lubricating oral tissues, buffering acids, facilitating remineralisation, supporting digestion, and providing antimicrobial protection.

However, millions of people worldwide suffer from xerostomia (dry mouth) due to ageing, medications, radiotherapy, autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome and systemic illnesses.

Current artificial saliva products primarily provide temporary lubrication and fail to replicate the complex biological, antimicrobial, and regenerative functions of natural saliva.

Consequently, there is an urgent need for next-generation saliva substitutes that not only relieve symptoms but also actively restore oral health.

The successful candidate will have opportunities for international collaboration, advanced microscopy and nanomaterial characterisation training, publication in high-impact journals, and participation in translational research with potential clinical and commercial applications.

Tenure: Four years

Start date: 1 November 2026

Specification

Minimum requirements

• A minimum upper second class honours (2.1) degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
• Relevant disciplines include: Dentistry (BDS, DDS, DMD or equivalent), oral biology, biomaterials, biomedical engineering, materials science, nanotechnology, chemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, chemical engineering, tissue engineering, life sciences, or related disciplines.

Desirable candidate specifications

• Previous research experience through an undergraduate or master's research project.
• Evidence of scientific publications or conference presentations.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary research environments.
• Interest in translating laboratory discoveries into clinical applications.
• Enthusiasm for developing innovative technologies with potential commercial and societal impact.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent organisational and time-management abilities.
• A high level of motivation and scientific curiosity.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Commitment to high-quality, reproducible research.

Note: The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in developing next-generation nanotechnology-enabled therapeutics for oral healthcare and a desire to work at the interface of dentistry, materials science, microbiology, and biomedical engineering. Candidates with previous research experience through undergraduate dissertations, master's theses, internships, publications, conference presentations, or industrial research placements will be viewed favourably.

Application process

Please apply for the research project through the link below.

Applicants must complete the application form: