Institute of Ophthalmology 3-Year Moorfields Eye Charity PhD Studentship: Studying the pathobiology of early diabetic retinopathy in humans

A full-time 3-year PhD studentship is available to study the pathobiology of early diabetic retinopathy in humans.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of long-term diabetes and can lead to vision loss. It is one of the most common causes of blindness in high income countries. Yet despite decades of research, the mechanisms that lead to DR in humans are poorly understood and there are no good treatments available. In this project, we aim to apply modern analysis methods (in situ hybridization, gene profiling and mass spectrometry imaging) to human postmortem tissue, which we have already collected and phenotyped, to investigate molecular mechanisms that may contribute to DR.

Applications of self-driven candidates with a desire to develop a career in bioscience are welcomed. The project is a collaboration between Prof Marcus Fruttiger (UCL Institute of Ophthalmology) and Prof Adnan Tufail (Moorfields Eye Hospital). 

Duties and Responsibilities 

The successful candidate is expected to: 

·      Develop an expertise in diabetes, diabetic complications and disease mechanisms in general

·      Carry out histopathological research using immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridisation, gene expression profiling and mass spectrometry imaging

·      Actively and continuously read the scientific literature (within and peripheral to the main project focus)

·      Work in collaboration with other researchers 

·      Prepare progress reports and presentations 

·      Travel for collaboration and other meetings or conferences 

·      Prepare manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals

·      Contribute to the overall activities of the research team, department and be aware of UCL policies

Person Specification 

·      A good degree (2.1 or above; or equivalent EU/overseas degree) and/or an MSc in a biomedical field, preferably relating to disease mechanisms

·      Demonstrable interest in scientific research, neurobiology, vascular biology and human disease mechanisms

·      Excellent methodological skills, particularly in project planning

·      High proficiency in written and spoken English is required

·      Very strong work ethic, with the ability to think creatively and work both individually and within a team 

Informal enquiries should be made to Prof Marcus Fruttiger ([Email Address Removed])

Formal applications should be submitted by email in the form of a CV, covering letter outlining motivation, interest, and suitability for this project, and contact details for two referees to Kristina Labanauskaite, Research Degrees Administrator ([Email Address Removed]).

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly for interview (can be via Skype or Zoom).

The successful candidate is expected to start 4th October 2020, but there is a possibility that the start date may be delayed.

Eligibility

The full studentship (tuition fees and salary stipend) is eligible to all UK nationals and EU nationals if they have been resident in the UK for at least 3 years immediately before the PhD start date.

Application deadline: 19 April 2021

Proposed interview date: 21-30 April 2021