Optimization and validation of bioactive coatings for metallic implants: from surface engineering to evaluation in a biomimetic 3D model

This thesis builds upon and expands the ANR PRCE BioImTiTis project, which aims to develop bifunctional bioactive coatings to improve the biointegration and long-term durability of dental implants. A major challenge is the prevention of peri-implantitis, an infection caused by a lack of sealing between the soft tissues and the implant. Developing coatings capable of both promoting cell adhesion and preventing bacterial colonization is therefore a challenge. Initial results have allowed us to identify a cocktail of molecules that can be deposited on Ti surfaces using the layer-by-layer technique via two deposition strategies: dip coating and spray coating. While the initial results have allowed us to demonstrate that these coatings exhibit promising antimicrobial activity, their pro-adhesive properties still need to be optimized.

Objective of the project

The objective of this PhD is to optimize and biologically validate multifunctional bioactive coatings for the functionalization of titanium dental implants, by combining surface engineering with advanced biological models.

The project is structured around three main work packages:

1- Coating optimization

The PhD candidate will design new multilayer architectures aimed at improving cell–material interactions while preserving antibacterial properties. This work will include in-depth physicochemical characterization of the films (ATR-FTIR, AFM, SEM, confocal microscopy), as well as the assessment of their stability and mechanical properties. Biological performance will be evaluated using eukaryotic cells (gingival fibroblasts, pre-osteoblasts) and bacterial strains under mono- and co-culture conditions.

This part of the project will be carried out at the ERRMECe laboratory.

2- Development and optimization of the 3D biomimetic model

The PhD candidate will be involved in the development and optimization of a three-dimensional in vitro biomimetic model of the implant–soft tissue interface. This model, currently under development at the BioTis laboratory, is based on a combination of tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting approaches. The candidate will actively contribute to its implementation and improvement through regular research stays in Bordeaux, in close collaboration with the partner teams.

This part of the project will be carried out both at ERRMECe and BIOTIS laboratory.

3- Validation of optimizes coatings in the 3D model

The optimized coatings will be evaluated in an integrated manner in terms of biointegration and cellular response within a physiologically relevant environment. This approach will provide key insights into interfacial mechanisms and help predict in vivo implant performance, while contributing to the reduction of animal experimentation.

This part of the project will be carried out at the BIOTIS laboratory.

Theme / Field / Context                 

Life and health sciences, Biomaterial sciences, biology, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnologies 

Valorization of the doctoral student's research work:  

Dissemination, publication and confidentiality, intellectual property rights, ...  

The PhD will be subject to the rules of confidentiality and research ethics in force in the two host structures.  

The results of the work will be published in international peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences in the fields of biomaterials science, tissue engineering, etc. They may also be potentially valorized in the form of a patent after study with the referent services (CY Transfer and UPV Valo) 

Profile and skills required  

- Master's degree or equivalent in biotechnology, bioengineering, materials science health applications 

- Advanced skills in biochemistry, cellular biology, physical chemistry of biomaterials,  

- Knowledge in the field of polymer chemistry and reactivity, material science, microbiology would be appreciated. 

- Fluent in English, both orally and in writing, and/or able to speak in French  

- Curiosity, autonomy, rigor and ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment at the interface of two laboratories and one industry 

Application deadline : 22/05/2026

ERRMECe étudie les inter-relations qui s’établissent entre les cellules et leurs différents environnements (de type naturels : matrice extracellulaire, biofilms, microenvironnement, matériaux…   ou  artificiels : surfaces, matériaux de synthèse, biomatériaux…). Les approches sont abordées sous des angles moléculaires, supramoléculaires et cellulaires. ERRMECe regroupe des biochimistes, des biologistes cellulaires, des physiologistes, des microbiologistes, des physico-chimistes et  fédère ces différentes compétences au niveau tant fondamentale qu’appliqué dans  l’étude des interactions environnement cellulaire / cellules  dans le cadre de pathologie, d’élaboration de matériaux et biomatériaux innovants, de process industriel ou de préservation du patrimoine. En particulier le groupe BioSAn Biomatériaux pour la Santé : Etude et développement, aux niveaux moléculaires, supramoléculaires et cellulaires, de travaux innovants en science des biomatériaux: de la conception à l’application

Développement d’hydrogels et de particules pour la délivrance d’actifs

Conception de biomatériaux présentant des propriétés bio adhésives ; bioactives, bio fonctionnelles.

Conception et développement de biomatériaux gélifiés et films minces

Master's degree or equivalent in biotechnology, bioengineering, materials science health applications 

- Advanced skills in biochemistry, cellular biology, physical chemistry of biomaterials,  

- Knowledge in the field of polymer chemistry and reactivity, material science, microbiology would be appreciated. 

- Fluent in English, both orally and in writing, and/or able to speak in French  

- Curiosity, autonomy, rigor and ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment at the interface of two laboratories and one industry