Hyperthermia for Controlling/Triggering Functionalities in Biopolymer-based Nanostructured Electrospun Scaffolds

The emphasis in biopolymer engineering has been on developing new materials with multiple and triggered on-demand functionalities through nano-structuration. This is driven by the need for diverse functionalities within the same materials, acting simultaneously or at different stages of their life cycle. These functionalities can result from inherent properties, or incorporation of additional components,. When effectively combined, these effects can enhance the materials' efficacy as healthcare devices. This proposal aims to develop biomaterials-based systems with a controlled micro(nano)structure and tailored thermal and mechanical properties (stiffness and diffusion coefficient) useful as a biomedical device: cutaneous patches for targeted treatment. The primary objective of this research is to develop nanostructured systems for treating skin diseases. Materials with controllable and localized heating capacity, coupled with a controllable diffusion coefficient, are highly desirable. When designed efficiently, the operator can trigger sequenced or simultaneous heating and controlled drug delivery within the material using external stimulus. This proposal aims to develop nanostructured systems with enhanced capacity in terms of controlled thermal and mechanical properties useful for curing pathologies where localized heating and drug administration is required, primarily for skin diseases.

In this proposal, the intellectual motivation is to develop an approach for efficiently fabricating materials with multifunctionalities that can be controlled or triggered on demand. The technological motivation is to design material-based engineered systems with selected functionality to act efficiently against specific diseases. We will focus on skin diseases typically induced by prolonged exposure to harsh external environments. The judicious selection of materials composing the proposed device can lead to controlling its temperature and mechanical properties. These aspects could be utilized as local and targeted treatment in numerous skin diseases.

Situated in the historic city of Compiègne, the Université de Technologie de Compiègne (UTC) provides an inspiring environment for ambitious doctoral candidates aiming to advance the frontiers of science and innovation. Renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, UTC integrates engineering, technology, and the human sciences, enabling doctoral researchers to address real-world challenges with creativity and impact. With state-of-the-art laboratories, robust industry partnerships, and a vibrant international community, UTC offers an ideal setting for developing advanced research skills while contributing to significant global progress. Opting for UTC means joining a dynamic ecosystem where curiosity is fostered, collaboration flourishes, and research can effect meaningful change.

We seek students with a background in materials and polymer science, particularly in physical and chemical characterization. Experience in polymer processing, such as electrospinning and nanoparticle synthesis, along with interest in biomaterials and biomedical applications, would be highly valued.

The student will work in a team primarily focused on the development of multifunctional materials. The student will mainly work at the University of Technology of Compiègne, but will be required to travel to the Marie Curie campus of Sorbonne University for certain experiments. Their primary supervision will be provided by Drs. Fahmi Bedoui and Jean Michel Siaugue. They will interact with the project researchers Drs. Isabelle Lisiecki and Timothée Baudequin.