Investigating platelet signalling and thrombus formation

We are seeking talented, motivated students with a passion for research in cardiovascular cell biology to work in the group of Dr Natalie Poulter, which focuses on understanding how platelets become activated and form a thrombus. https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/cardiovascular-sciences/poulter-natalie.aspx 

Applicants should have a first or upper second-class degree in a relevant scientific discipline, be self-funded or have typically applied for, or secured funding, for their studies from their government, employer or associated charitable organisations.

Platelets are blood cells that prevent bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. They sense vascular damage via proteins on their surface (receptors), which causes activation, making them become ‘sticky’ and allowing them to plug the vessel. However, excessive, or inappropriate, activation of platelets can result in thrombosis (blood clots) which can cause heart attack or stroke. Conversely, inefficient platelet activation can cause unregulated bleeding.

The Poulter team is part of the ‘Thrombosis and Haemostasis’ and ‘Imaging and Technology’ research themes in the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences. Broadly speaking we have four main areas of interest:

• Investigating platelet receptor signalling and thrombus formation 
• Application of advanced microscopy techniques to study platelet cell biology
• Investigating genetic variants that result in mild bleeding disorders
• Development of potential novel anti-thrombotic therapies

We have ongoing projects examining:

• Platelet receptor signalling and regulation e.g. receptor cleavage
• The role that receptor clustering plays in thrombus formation under flow conditions
• The architecture of a thrombus using expansion microscopy
• The effect of genetic variants of platelet receptors on platelet function
• The use of novel nanobodies as imaging tools and potential anti-thrombotics

Within our lab we use a variety of advanced microscopy techniques (e.g.super-resolution microscopy (dSTORM/SIM), expansion microscopy), platelet function testing, flow adhesion assays, flow cytometry and biochemical methods on platelets from healthy donors or patient samples. Also, the use of cell line models for investigating receptor variants.

PhD projects in these areas are available to self-funded or scholarship-funded graduates interested in joining ICVS.

APPLICATION ROUTES

Self-funded or scholarship-funded graduates interested in joining the team can select one of 3 different routes for undertaking a PhD in the field of Cardiovascular Sciences. 

Applicants with research experience and/or Master’s degree should apply directly to the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences for either a 3 or 4 year full-time PhD – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/research/med/cardiovascular-sciences.aspx This route requires applicants to submit a drafted research proposal.

Applicants seeking additional research experience or who have yet to complete a Master’s degree, should apply to the 4 year Integrated Doctoral Training Programme in Life Sciences for Health, which combines an MRes and PhD – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/pgr/idtp/index.aspx. 

Applicants will need to submit the following documentation during the application process: 

• Detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth
• Covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities and why you wish to undertake a PhD in the team
• Names and addresses of two referees
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts written in English 
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable
• Evidence of scholarship application/funding or independent funding
• Overseas graduates require IELTs of 6.5 overall

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

University of Birmingham offers pre-sessional English Language courses through the Birmingham International Academy – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international/bia/presessional/index.aspx

For additional information on postgraduate studying at University of Birmingham please click - https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate 

For additional information on research at the College of Medical and Dental Sciences please click – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/mds/index.aspx 

For additional information on research in the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences please click – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/cardiovascular-sciences/index.aspx