Curtin-Orthopaedic Research Foundation WA Scholarship is a collaborative sponsorship effort between Curtin University, East Metropolitan Health Service, and Orthopaedic Research Foundation Western Australia (ORFWA). The program will determine the real-world combination of corrosion and wear mechanisms of metal implants used in total hip and knee arthroplasty. Implant degradation is often associated with a mode of attack referred to as dynamic crevice corrosion, which occurs due to micromovements in a narrow gap (e.g., head/taper junctions) between components. For this purpose, a unique test method has been developed at Curtin Corrosion Centre in collaboration with the Centre for Implant Technology and Retrieval Analysis (CITRA) from the East Metropolitan Health Service. This PhD program will investigate different alloys and combinations of materials, such as stainless steel, titanium, and Co-Cr alloys. Effects of different parameters, e.g., dissimilar alloy design, surface roughness, and pH on infection, will be investigated. It is expected that the program will help surgeons to select the best combination of alloys and materials for joint arthroplasty, tailored to the lifestyle and overall health of patients.

• Future Students

• Faculty of Science & Engineering
  • Western Australian School of Mines (WASM)

• Postgraduate coursework

• Australian Citizen
• Australian Permanent Resident
• New Zealand Citizen

• Merit Based

This scholarship provides a living stipend of $55,000.00 p.a. pro rata indexed, based on full-time studies, for up to a maximum of 3.5 years.

1

Materials Engineering (preferred), Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry.

• Successful recipients must not hold a PhD degree in a similar discipline.
• Full-time enrolment
• Successful recipients must also not be in receipt of any other scholarship.

The interested candidates submit their cover letter, CV and academic transcripts via email.

Dr Ke Wang, ke.wang2@curtin.edu.au