Understanding the posttranslational control of inflammatory response.

The incidence of inflammatory disease in the population is rapidly increasing hence the urgent need to validate novel targets and develop efficient anti-inflammatory drugs. Macrophages are key cells regulating the immune response and initiate critical inflammatory processes such as the activation of the inflammasome, a molecular complex responsible for the release of potent proinflammatory mediators and cell death (pyroptosis). Inappropriate activation of the inflammasome contributes to deleterious inflammatory syndromes including, diabetes, atherosclerosis or cancer. However, our understanding of the intrinsic regulatory mechanisms of inflammasome activation is incomplete thus hindering development of effective interventions for these devastating conditions.

This project will explore the molecular mechanisms of inflammasome activation. It will investigate the cellular signalling mechanisms by which the ubiquitin system mediates this activation in macrophages and delineate the mechanisms that dampen the activity of this inflammatory complex during the resolution phase of inflammation.

This project is ideal for a candidate with strong interests in cell biology and the use of molecular approaches to study human disease-relevant questions. This will involve a significant amount of cell culture, both cell lines and primary cells (murine and human), molecular biology, and imaging, using standard immunostaining techniques but also live cell using confocal microscopy. The PhD student will benefit from a stimulating environment and the cutting-edge facilities at the faculty of Biology Medicine and Health and the world-leading Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation. As a PhD student you will be encouraged to present your research at internal meetings as well as attending international conferences. Please email us if you are interested and would like to know more about the project.

Entry Requirements

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Biology or a related area / subject. Candidates with experience in molecular biology approaches or with an interest in inflammation and cellular signalling are encouraged to apply.

How To Apply

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/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select the appropriate subject title.

For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/