Molecular Pathology of Glaucoma

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide affecting over 64 million people. Glaucoma is a complex multifactorial ocular disease with significant health and socio-economic impact. Our group in combination with national and international collaborators are working on a number of areas to understand the molecular pathology of glaucoma. Using an integrative approach a number of complementary projects are ongoing to understand the genetics, cellular and molecular mechanisms of glaucoma and develop new pharmacological, gene-based and cell therapies for glaucoma. The areas we are currently studying include:

1. Role of TGFβ and connective tissue growth factor in glaucoma-related fibrosis in the trabecular meshwork and following glaucoma surgery.
2. Oxidative stress and glaucoma pathogenesis
3. Mitochondrial dysfunction in glaucoma
4. MicroRNA gene regulation in glaucoma
5. Stem cell biology of the trabecular meshwork cell using transcriptomics and single-cell sequencing
6. The pharmacogenetics and molecular basis for steroid glaucoma
7. Genetics of advanced glaucoma

We now wish to recruit a motivated, hard-working student with a good background in cell biology/genetics/molecular biology and a strong desire to learn new techniques. In turn, we will provide training in a range of cutting-edge approaches, including bioinformatics, transcriptomics, miRNA biology, cell culture, stem cell biology and genetics. The student will be provided with training and support and will be expected to drive their project forward with the help and guidance of more senior lab members and our collaborators on this project. The applicant will join an ambitious group with national and international collaborations in the UK, USA, Australia and Ireland.

Methods to be used:
These will include (depending on the specific research focus):
- research-specific skills: genotyping, molecular biology, transcriptomics, bioinformatics, cell biology, DNA sequencing and model systems (cellular, mouse and organ culture, genetics/GWAS.
- generic research skills: critical thinking, IT skills, scientific integrity, ethics, project and time management, scientific writing, presentation skills and public engagement;
- transferable skills: personal effectiveness, oral and written communication skills, networking and teamwork, management and leadership, understanding of research context.

Skills required of applicant:
We are seeking an applicant with good practical laboratory, computer and communication skills and enthusiasm and commitment to work diligently on all aspects of the research project. A background in biomedical sciences, genetics, pharmacology or a related subject would be desirable. Informal enquiries to Prof Colin Willoughby ([Email Address Removed]) are welcomed.

Essential Criteria
• Upper Second Class Honours (2:1) Degree or equivalent from a UK institution (or overseas award deemed to be equivalent via UK NARIC)
• Sound understanding of the subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal


Desirable Criteria
If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.
• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Research project completion within taught Masters degree or MRES
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health-related area