Elphinstone Scholarship - Novel interventions for treatment of diabetes and heart disease

Obesity is a major risk factor for development of insulin-resistance, diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the most prevalent cause of mortality among patients with diabetes, due to accelerated atherosclerosis. We previously demonstrated that inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) in vivo in mouse models of atherosclerosis improves insulin resistance, decreases circulating lipids and protects against atherosclerosis (1). We also demonstrated that inhibition of PTP1B specifically in the myeloid cells (macrophages) protects against atherosclerosis development in the absence of changes in body weight and adiposity (2). In this project we aim to mechanistically investigate the effects of PTP1B inhibition on signalling networks thought to be key in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and diabetes as well as assess the translational potential of these findings. The student will gain excellent training within the basic and clinical sciences and as an integral member of the Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre; with training in advanced statistics, biochemical and molecular biology techniques, in vivo metabolic testing and imaging and cell culture of primary murine and human cells. 

Informal enquiries are encouraged, please contact the lead supervisor Prof. Mirela Delibegovic ( [Email Address Removed]) for further information.

Essential background of student:

Applicants should hold a 1st Class UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject. Those with a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) may be considered, provided they have (or are expected to achieve) a Distinction or Commendation at Master’s level.

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This project will be based within the Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS), part of the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, at the University of Aberdeen. The IMS is located on the Foresterhill Health Campus, one of the largest clinical complexes in Europe, which also includes the Institute of Applied Health Sciences, the Rowett Institute, and a large teaching hospital.

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APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Please note: The funding for this project covers tuition fees and research costs only, no stipend or living costs are provided.

• Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php
• You should apply for Medical Sciences (PhD) to ensure your application is passed to the correct team.
• Please clearly note the name of the lead supervisor and project title on the application form. If you do not mention the project title and the supervisor on your application it will not be considered for the studentship.
• Please include a personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and relevant educational certificates and transcripts (Undergraduate and postgraduate (if applicable)).
• Please note: you DO NOT need to provide a research proposal with this application
• CV's submitted directly through a FindAPhD enquiry WILL NOT be considered.
• General application enquiries can be made to [Email Address Removed]