Research

I'm part of the Evolutionary Morphology and Biomechanics (EMB) research group.

My research interests include the comparative anatomy and functional morphology of vertebrates to understand the relationships between form, function and evolution of the musculoskeletal system. Specifically, I apply biomechanical methods such as finite element analysis to investigate craniofacial biomechanics, feeding and the function of the jaw muscles and TMJ, the function of cranial sutures and craniosynostosis, and craniofacial growth.

We also have an EMB blog.

The biomechanics and skull shape modelling of craniosynostosis

This project aims to advance knowledge of the biomechanical role of sutures (soft connective tissue joints between the skull bones) in overall skull function by investigating how the patterns of cranial strain are influenced by the patency of sutures.

Craniofacial sutures are unique joints found in the skull and are important sites for bone growth during development, and for absorption of mechanical stress. Conditions such as craniosynostosis (~1 in every 2000 live births) involves the premature closure of sutures, and unless there is early surgical intervention this can lead to serious clinical pathologies, such as head malformations and brain damage. Corrective surgery aims to separate the fused cranial bones, restore head shape, and allow for normal cranial development. It is therefore important to understand the role sutures play in skull function to inform the surgical management of craniosynostosis patients to achieve the best outcome.

Temporal fascia function during human growth: biomechanical modelling to predict the impact of surgical intervention

The primary purpose of this project is to explore the function of the temporal fascia, characterising its role during craniofacial growth and chewing, by building, analysing and validating biomechanical models of the human skull and jaw muscles. There is growing evidence of the mechanical significance of the temporal fascia during chewing, in controlling temporalis muscle force direction and bone strain distribution over the zygomatic arch and cranial vault. However, it is often overlooked in investigations of jaw muscle and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function during mastication, resulting in a lack of knowledge about its role in regulating cranial strain and joint reaction forces. In addition, there is evidence that the temporal fascia impacts cranial ontogenetic development and zygomatic arch shape; however, the consequence of detaching the fascia during surgery is unknown for normal skull function, and healthy bone growth in children or adults.

Research grants

Temporal fascia function during human growth: biomechanical modelling to predict the impact of surgical intervention

BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE RESEARCH COUNCIL

August 2023 - August 2026

Evolution's edge: How sutures shaped the diversification of the mammal skull

LEVERHULME TRUST (UK)

May 2022 - May 2025

Research collaborations

Dr Laura Fitton

Functional development within the masticatory apparatus: an investigation into feeding capabilities with changing diets.

University of York

This project uses virtual anatomy techniques to quantify how hard and soft tissue anatomy changes during growth. Using physical testing and biomechanical modelling, the impact of these changes on performance will be assessed.

Prof Anjali Goswami

Evolution's edge: How sutures shaped the diversification of the mammal skull

Natural History Museum London

Bridging imaging, machine learning, cranial function and evolution, this project will reconstruct cranial suture evolution and its role in one of the most important events in the history of life: the rise of mammals.

Dr Kris D'Aout

In vivo thickness and dynamic behaviour of the heel fat pad during ageing: biomechanical and anthropological impact of footwear