One of the leading causes of end-stage kidney disease is damage to the glomerulus, the part of the kidney where the blood is filtered to make urine. This damage is partly caused by the build-up of white blood cells within the glomerulus, which causes inflammation. Thymosin-beta4 is a naturally-occurring protein that can reduce inflammation and it is already being tested in clinical trials for heart disease and other conditions. My group, in collaboration with UCL, has shown that thymosin-beta4 has a protective role in kidney disease where it protects epithelial cells, reduces inflammation and slows disease progression. The aim of this study is to study the biological mechanisms that underpin the protective role of thymosin-beta4 in kidney disease.
The PhD student will have access to research facilities (including imaging, molecular biology, histology and tissue culture) and will acquire skills in a broad range of cell biology, molecular biology and imaging techniques. There will be opportunities to present at departmental meetings as well as at national and international conferences.
Entry requirements:
Applicants should have or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate subject and a Masters (at Merit or above) in Biological Sciences or Pharmaceutical Science or closely related subject.
How to Apply:
To apply please go to
https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/786/pharmacy You will need to apply through the online application form on the main University website. Please note that you will be expected to provide personal details, education and employment history and supporting documentation (curriculum vitae, transcript of results, two academic references). You are not required to submit a research proposal.
We welcome applications from people with disabilities and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.
