I am an early career Research Fellow at the University of Manchester and Manager for the ICRS Patient Registry.

As a Biomedical Engineer, my research interest is focused on the clinical and biomechanical assessment of lower limb biomechanics. I am particularly interested in the biomechanics of the knee, and specialise in cartilage injury and arthritis. I am also involved in research into novel treatments and methods of preventing disease progression in osteochondral injury and osteoarthritis.

I am passionate about research in the field of orthopaedics, as well as working with surgeons and industry partners to help better our understanding of the treatments of cartilage repair and joint preservation.

My current Fellowship is investigating the biomechanical outcomes of autologous chondrocyte implantation as a treatment for cartilage lesions in the knee. This Fellowship is funded by Orthopaedic Research UK and the British Association for Surgery of the Knee. 

As a STEM Ambassador, I visit local schools in Manchester at least once a month to promote interest in STEM subjects. The activities I am involved with include attending career evenings, teaching particular subjects, interview preparation with pupils, and general education of less common STEM subjects such as biomedical engineering. 

I also involve myself in events aimed at engaging members of the public in research.

Involving patients in our research is also a major priority of mine. I often host focus groups with patients that are aimed at directing our future research in osteaorthritis. 

Manchester Orthopaedic Research and Education (MORE) Group

Professor Leela Biant

Mr Michael McNicholas