Project Overview
This project offers an exciting opportunity to use hydrogels and 3D printing to engineer a segment of the spinal cord, which could be further developed into a transplant for patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). This work furthers our understanding on how the neural tube evolves during development into the spinal cord and the brain. The tools and pipelines used in this PhD will be adapted in the development of new 3D scaffolds and organoids that can pave the road for tissue regeneration and transplantation.
We will use stem cell cultures and commercially available hydrogels to 3D print a developing model of the neural tube. We will section the developing organoids using a microtome and characterize the differentiating cells with a variety of techniques. For example, we will look at gene and protein expression, via PCR, immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. We will also verify the presence of electrical activity, using micro-electrode array recordings.
Skill training and opportunities
The project offers excellent opportunities for training and development. You will develop skills such as taking microtome sections of 3D hydrogel scaffolds, using Multi Electrode Arrays (MEAs) and performing PCR, immunohistochemistry, and patch-clamp recordings. You will also develop skills and experience in advanced data analysis and writing for scientific publications.
Neural Models Group:
Our group uses models of the central nervous system to understand the brain and treat pathologies. We use stem cells, brain slices and primary cells to engineer neural networks that are examined under different conditions, and characterized using electrophysiology, PCR and immunohistochemistry.
School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading:
The University of Reading, located west of London, England, provides world-class research education programs. The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, a 30-minute train ride to central London and 40 minutes from London Heathrow airport.
Our School of Biological Sciences conducts high-impact research, tackling current global challenges faced by society and the planet. Our research ranges from understanding and improving human health and combating disease, through to understanding evolutionary processes and uncovering new ways to protect the natural world. In 2020, we moved into a stunning new ~£60 million Health & Life Sciences building. This state-of-the-art facility is purpose-built for science research and teaching. It houses the Cole Museum of Zoology, a café and social spaces.
In the School of Biological Sciences, you will be joining a vibrant community of ~180 PhD students representing ~40 nationalities. Our students publish in high-impact journals, present at international conferences, and organise a range of exciting outreach and public engagement activities.
During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision in one-to-one and small group sessions. You will have access to cutting-edge technology and learn the latest research techniques. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If English is not your first language, the University's excellent International Study and Language Institute will help you develop your academic English skills.
The University of Reading is a welcoming community for people of all faiths and cultures. We are committed to a healthy work-life balance and will work to ensure that you are supported personally and academically.
Eligibility:
Applicants should have a good degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent) in Biomedical Engineering or a strongly-related discipline. Applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional courses that can help with meeting these requirements. With a commitment to improving diversity in science and engineering, we encourage applications from underrepresented groups.
How to apply:
Submit an application for a PhD in Biomedical Engineering at http://www.reading.ac.uk/pgapply.
Further information:
http://www.reading.ac.uk/biologicalsciences/SchoolofBiologicalSciences/PhD/sbs-phd.aspx
Enquiries:
Dr. Evangelos Delivopoulos, email: e.delivopoulos@reading.ac.uk
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