Looking for a PhD project at Griffith University?
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We are offering several PhD projects that will be undertaken in partnership with industry and clinical partners. If you are interested in any of the projects listed below, please contact CMIT.
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PhD Project
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The purpose of this project is to compare musculotendon outcomes following standard and novel anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Specifically, we plan to examine regeneration and knee function 1-year following quadrupled semitendinosis ACLR and ACLR combined with Arthrex’s regenerative medicine therapies into the graft donor site (called ACLR+).
Previous studies have found donor hamstring muscles experience substantial morbidity following ACLR. Specifically, semitendinosus and gracilis musculotendon units experience limited tendon regeneration, retraction of the muscle belly and generalized atrophy. Furthermore, the knee evidences strength deficits and impairments to function. We aim to establish that hamstrings ACLR+ is a superior therapy compared to standard hamstrings ACLR. Our objective is to test this proposition using a retrospectively controlled trial whereby we examine musculotendon outcomes and knee function between the affected and unaffected limbs at 1-year following surgery in different two groups (i.e., ACLR and ACLR+).
A successful candidate is expected to hold a bachelor’s degree with first-class honours or second-class honours (Division A) or a master’s degree. These degrees should incorporate a significant research component in either mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, human movement science or kinesiology, or related degrees. Essential skills include competency with solid mechanics, computational modelling, and basic knowledge of signal processing. Desirable skills include a foundation in MATLAB or Python (C++ if possible), experience with medical imaging of muscle and tendon.
