The role of cells in the persistence of inflammation

A characteristic feature of chronic inflammatory reactions is their persistence and predilection for certain sites. Our group investigates the role that tissue resident stromal cells (fibroblasts) play in determining both the switch to persistence as well as the site at which inflammation occurs. In chronic inflammation the resolution phase is prolonged and disordered leading to the persistent accumulation of the inflammatory infiltrate. Our work has allowed us to propose that a stromal area post code, predominantly defined by fibroblasts, exists within tissues. Our hypothesis predicts that components of this stromal area post code become disordered during inflammation, leading to the accumulation of lymphocytes in structures that resemble lymphoid tissues. We have proposed that inflammation is not generic but contextual and therefore differences in the response of different inflammatory diseases to therapy are likely to be due to intrinsic differences in the behaviour of stromal cells within different environments. Ignoring the contribution of stromal cells to the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory disease may account for the failure of current therapies to affect a permanent cure. We suggest that stromal cells in general and fibroblasts in particular offer a new family of organ specific targets to treat chronic immune mediated inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Person Specification
Applicants should have a strong background in biomedical science. They should have a commitment to research in immunology and inflammatory biology and hold or realistically expect to obtain at least an Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a relevant biomedical subject.

How to apply
Informal enquiries should be directed to Professor Chris Buckley [Email Address Removed]

To apply, please send the following to Professor Chris Buckley [Email Address Removed]:
• A detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.