Harnessing long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) to stimulate pancreatic islet regeneration

Are you interested in a 4 year PhD combining wet-lab experimental research with the chance to gain bioinformatics skills? This exciting project is based in King’s College London with the opportunity to spend time abroad gaining a joint-PhD with Technische Universität Dresden.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by the failure of pancreatic beta cells to adequately compensate for increased insulin demand. In seeking to understand how this compensation could be improved, pregnancy provides a good model of benign beta cell compensation, as islets respond to the increased metabolic demands of the growing foetus. Better understanding of the pathways regulating beta cell proliferation would provide the opportunity to stimulate islet regeneration, combatting diabetes.

This project aims to investigate the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in regulating beta cell proliferation during pregnancy. Based in a friendly and active Diabetes department with expertise of many areas of islet biology, it will use both cell lines and primary tissues combined with CRISPR genome editing techniques, molecular biology and high-throughput sequencing.

Academic Requirements: A scientific undergraduate degree class 2.1 or higher. Previous research experience would be an advantage. No computer coding skills are required, but candidates should be willing to learn R.

Informal enquires are welcome and should be directed to Timothy Pullen ([Email Address Removed]).

To apply, please email your full CV and a one page supporting statement detailing research experience and interest in this project to [Email Address Removed]


Start date negotiable.