News

The Opportunity

We are seeking an outstanding PhD candidate to join a frontier research programme focused on high-entropy bioceramics (HEBCs) one of the most rapidly emerging areas at the intersection of materials science, additive manufacturing, and regenerative medicine. This project builds upon a recent Comment published in Nature Reviews Materials, which introduced the conceptual and scientific framework of HEBCs as a new paradigm for designing next-generation bone substitutes. The successful candidate will work at the forefront of translating this concept into functional biomaterials and implant technologies. The project is conducted in close collaboration with an industry partner with a strong track record in translating bioceramic technologies into commercial medical devices. As a result, the research also offering a rare opportunity to engage with the entire innovation pipeline from materials discovery and processing to pre-clinical development and regulatory considerations.

What you will gain

This PhD provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of a new generation of bioceramics while working in a highly collaborative and translational research environment. As part of a frontier research programme at the early stage of an emerging field, you will contribute to shaping the scientific foundations and technological directions of high-entropy bioceramics, positioning yourself among the first researchers advancing this new paradigm in biomaterials science. Your work will therefore place you at the forefront of a rapidly evolving area and allow you to be part of the early history of this field. 

You will gain:

• Hands-on experience in bioceramic synthesis, characterisation, and ceramic additive manufacturing
• Exposure to industry-linked translational research, including pathways towards medical device development
• Opportunities to lead and mentor junior students, contribute to teaching activities, and collaborate across multidisciplinary projects
• Experience working across related research themes in mechanobiology, microfluidics, tissue engineering, and advanced ceramic fabrication

The research will be conducted within the Laboratory for Advanced Biomaterials and Fabrication (LABF), with access to state-of-the-art facilities at UTS Tech Lab, one of Australia’s leading industry-integrated research environments.

Candidate profile

We are seeking candidates who demonstrate strong intellectual curiosity, independence, and the motivation to lead ambitious research projects.

Ideal applicants will:

• Hold a Bachelor’s (Honours) or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline
• Demonstrate a strong academic record (competitive candidates typically hold First Class Honours or equivalent; publications are advantageous)
• Have experience or interest in ceramics, bioceramics, biomaterials, or additive manufacturing (preferred but not essential)
• Possess strong analytical thinking, communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Show clear motivation to pursue high-impact research with translational potential

About the group

The Laboratory for Advanced Biomaterials and Fabrication (LABF) at the University of Technology Sydney is led by A/Prof. Iman Roohani, founder and director of the Biomaterials Translational Hub at UTS Tech Lab. The group focuses on the development of next-generation biomaterials and fabrication technologies for musculoskeletal regeneration. Core research areas include advanced bioceramics and synthetic bone grafts, 3D bioprinting and ceramic additive manufacturing, mechanobiology and biomaterial–cell interactions, translational strategies for orthopaedic medical devices. The lab has an established track record of industry-partnered translational research, with several technologies progressing towards clinical and commercial application.

How to apply

Please send the following documents to iman.roohani@uts.edu.au with the subject line: “PhD Application – Bioceramics”

• CV (including GPA, publications, and research experience)
• Brief cover letter (maximum 1 page) outlining your motivation and relevant background
• Academic transcripts
• Contact details for two referees

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early applications are strongly encouraged.

Reference

Roohani, I. & Curtarolo, S. (2026). High-entropy bioceramics as an emerging frontier. Nature Reviews Materials. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41578-025-00885-0