Pre-clinical study of novel treatment targets for chronic kidney disease, Biological & Medical Sciences – PhD

The University of Exeter’s Medical School is inviting applications for an unfunded PhD position to commence in September 2018 or as soon as possible thereafter. The student would be based in the Hatherly Laboratories in the Medical School at the Streatham campus.

Location:

University of Exeter Medical School, Streatham Campus, Exeter
Academic Supervisors:
Dr Maarten Koeners, University of Exeter
Dr Daniela Patinha, University of Exeter

https://medicine.exeter.ac.uk/people/profile/index.php?web_id=Maarten_Koeners

Project Description:
To make any breakthroughs in finding a cure for chronic kidney disease (CKD), there is an urgent need to obtain a better and more detailed understanding of the cause(s) and mechanisms underlying the progression from minor loss of function to complete kidney failure. This studentship will investigate whether an inefficient oxygenation of kidney tissue, i.e. hypoxia, could be either used as a novel treatment target or a novel predictor of disease outcome. Using unique-in-the-world technology we will investigate the temporal sequence of events that lead to reduced kidney oxygenation in CKD using pre-clinical in vivo models. By understanding more about long-term regulation and the sequence of events leading to kidney hypoxia, we aim to enable earlier and more targeted interventions to treat renal and cardiovascular diseases.

The University of Exeter Medical School is seeking to attract self-funded PhD candidates of outstanding ability to join their exciting and rapidly expanding programme of internationally rated research. This studentship will be hosted by the laboratory of Dr Maarten Koeners within the Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science (IBCS). Current research in the laboratory of the supervisor focuses on kidney oxygen metabolism in relation to renal and cardiovascular disease (1-3) and is funded by the British Heart Foundation: www.bhf.org.uk/ckd

Entry requirements:
Applicants should be highly motivated and have, or expect to obtain, either a first or upper-second class BSc (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline. International applicants must also have IELTS [International English Language Testing System] score of 7 and above (or equivalent qualification). For more information, please see our English Language Requirements:
http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply/english/).

How to apply
Please send a CV, Covering letter (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project) and copies of degree transcript (giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying) to UEMS Graduate Research: [Email Address Removed]

Candidates are encouraged to make an expression of interest, as early as possible. The award will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate can be found.

If you have any general enquiries about the application process please email [Email Address Removed] or phone +44 (0)1392 722730. Project specific queries should be directed to Dr Koeners.

We regret that only candidates shortlisted for interview will be contacted.

Applications accepted all year round.

This studentship will be self-funded