The role of endothelial PKD1 in endothelial dysfunction and formation of aortic aneurysms

Polycytin-1 (PKD1) is the main causative gene for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) affecting every 1 in 400 to 1,000 people. ADPKD is characterised by progressive development of fluid-filled cysts in both kidneys and is the leading inheritable cause of end-stage renal disease. The disease is accompanied with cardiovascular abnormalities, including weakened and bulging areas of blood vessels called aneurysms, by mechanisms that are still not completely understood.

The PhD student will undertake a programme of study to elucidate the mechanisms by which vascular endothelial PKD1 regulates aneurysm development in ADPKD patients. To this aim, they will use in vitro (primary human endothelial cells) and ex vivo approaches (human and porcine arteries). The project will be carried out under the supervision of Dr Serbanovic-Canic and Prof. Sheila Francis (Division of Clinical Medicine) in a supportive and collaborative environment.

The student will obtain extensive experience in a range of cellular and molecular biology techniques, including primary cell culture, gene silencing, gene expression profiling, real-time PCR, Western blotting, histology, immunofluorescence staining and microscopy. Additionally, they will build a strong foundation of transferable skills essential for a wide variety of future careers.

Entry Requirements:

Candidates must have a first or upper second class honours degree or significant research experience

Entry Requirements:

Candidates must have a first or upper second class honours degree or significant research experience. 

How to apply:

Please complete a University Postgraduate Research Application form available here: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying. 

Please clearly state the prospective main supervisor in the respective box and select ‘School of Medicine & Population Health: Oncology & Metabolism’ as the department.