Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

The University of Manchester

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  Promoting tissue repair with natural cell-signalling peptides

  Dr M Sherratt, Dr A P Gilmore, Dr Matiss Ozols  Applications accepted all year round

About the Project

In many tissues damage to the extracellular matrix (ECM) can accumulate over a lifetime resulting in the functional manifestations of skin ageing and diseases such as arteriosclerosis, emphysema and arthritis. There is compelling evidence that some bioactive ECM-derived peptides (matrikines) can promote the synthesis of new matrix proteins although the underlying mechanisms of matrikine action are poorly understood. This PhD project aims to identify naturally occurring matrikines which promote tissue repair by characterising their action on skin cells in vitro and in vivo. The student will become well versed in cell and extracellular matrix biology, cell signalling, 3D culture and bio-printing, the application of proteomic and transcriptomic technologies and the ethical and practical aspects of recruiting human volunteers in a clinical setting. The studentship is sponsored by Walgreens Boots Alliance and will be conducted in collaboration with colleagues in France and Germany. There will be opportunities for the student to visit European laboratories and learn the process of skin care product development within a large, multi-national commercial environment.

Entry Requirements:

Applicants are expected to hold, or about to obtain, a minimum upper second class undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in cell biology, physiology, biochemistry or bioengineering. A Master’s degree in a relevant subject and/or experience in skin biology/ageing are desirable.

Applications will close when a suitable candidate is found so please apply as soon as possible.

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/).On the application form select PhD Cell Matrix Research.

Funding Notes

Fully funded Studentship through Walgreens Boots Alliance. Studentship funding is for a duration of four years to commence in September 2019 or January 2020 and covers UK/EU tuition fees and an annual minimum stipend (£15,466 per annum 2019/20). Where international student fees are payable, please provide evidence within your application of how the shortfall will be covered (approximately £19,000 per annum).

As an equal opportunities institution we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

References

Eckersley A, Mellody KT, Pilkington S, Griffiths CEM, Watson REB, O’Cualain R, Baldock C, Knight D, Sherratt MJ. 2018. Structural and compositional diversity of fibrillin microfibrils in human tissues. J. Biol. Chem. 89:109-117.

Bradley EJ, Griffiths CEM, Sherratt MJ, Bell M, Watson REB. 2015. Over-the-counter anti-ageing topical agents and their ability to protect and repair photoaged skin. Maturitas. 80:265-272.

Wells JM, Gagger A, Blalock JE. 2015. MMP generated matrikines. Matrix Biology,. 44-46:122-129.

Duca L, Floquet N, Alix, AJP, Haye B, Haye B, Debelle L. 2004. Elastin as a matrikine. Critical Reviews in Oncology Haematology. 49:235-244.

Naylor EC, Watson RE, Sherratt MJ (2011). Molecular aspects of skin ageing. Maturitas. 69:249-256.

Where will I study?

Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

Tackle real world challenges, make a difference, and elevate your career with postgraduate research in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health at Manchester. From biochemistry to neuroscience, cancer sciences to medicine, audiology to mental health and everything in between, we offer a wide range of postgraduate research projects, programmes and funding which will allow you to immerse yourself in an area of research you’re passionate about.

Why study at Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health?

Experience PhD life as part of a diverse postgraduate research community of more than 1,000 postgraduate researchers at the 29th most international university in the world (Times Higher Education, 2023).

Ranked the best place to live in the UK (The Economist Global Liveability Index, 2022), Manchester boasts world-class culture, iconic sports, a thriving music and food scene, and much more. It's not just a place to research, it's a place to call home.

With 93% of research activity at the University rated as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' (Research Excellence Framework, 2021), you'll get the chance to have an impact on global health and science challenges.

1000+

postgraduate students

98

PhDs

6th

in the UK - QS (2025)

Manchester  United Kingdom

main campus

About Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

At Manchester, postgraduate researchers are at the heart of our mission to tackle pressing global challenges in biological, medical and healthcare sciences - and you could be too.

By choosing Manchester for your postgraduate research, you’ll be joining a university with an exceptional research reputation, where 93% of research is world-leading or internationally excellent (REF, 2021) and where your work will have real-world impact.

You’ll research in world-class facilities alongside leading experts at the forefront of innovation, collaborating across disciplines to pioneer new treatments, advance scientific knowledge, and improve healthcare globally.

Supported by our dedicated Doctoral Academy and strong industry links, you'll experience PhD life in a vibrant, welcoming and diverse postgraduate research community.

And you’ll leave with the specialist knowledge, research experience and transferable skills that will shape your future in academia, research or industry.


Main campus

The University of Manchester

Manchester

North West

United Kingdom

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