(MRC DTP) The role of the cutaneous basement membrane in wound healing across the human life-span

Skin fragility refers to a broad range of conditions in which the ability of skin to provide protection against trivial mechanical stressors is not fully ensured, resulting in the formation of blisters, erosions, wounds and ultimately scars. The relevance of the topic is high, since skin fragility is common in our aged population and is associated with high morbidity. In addition, delayed wound healing is a further common problem for older individuals leaving affected patients susceptible to infection and subsequent complications. The overall aim of this project is to understand the role the cutaneous basement membrane plays in the wound healing process. This research will determine - using both in vitro and in vivo human studies - how the basement membrane contributes to cutaneous wound repair and how this changes with increasing age. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team of researchers within the Centre for Dermatological Research, School of Biological Sciences and will be provided with a unique opportunity to work at the interface of biology and medicine on a project that has great potential for clinical translation and impact. Manchester Dermatology is ranked 1st nationally in terms of research outputs (RAND analysis, 2016). State-of-the-art training will be provided in histological techniques, cell culture and human clinical research. By working at the interface between clinical and biological sciences, the student will learn how disciplines can come together to support the translation of scientific findings to provide clinically-relevant patient benefit. www.research.manchester.ac.uk/portal/en/researchers/rachel-watson(46b38916-7986-4054-801e-1a1b3bce08d2)/impact.html Entry requirements: Applications are invited from UK/EU nationals only. Applicants must have obtained, or be about to obtain, at least an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject.