PHDSS1730: Dysregulated proteinase-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) activity in COPD airway pathobiology

A 4-year PhD Studentship on respiratory disease is now available in the Institute of Biomedical & Environmental Health Research (School of Science and Sport).

This EU-funded post forms part of an international €7.7M doctoral training programme (BREATH) consisting of 16 PhD students and 5 postdoctoral trainers across three institutions, and includes PhD stipend (currently £14,296 per annum), postgraduate fees, running costs as well as a generous travel and training allowance.

Project Details: The PAR2 receptor, regulated by specific serine protease activities, is implicated in a host of human (particularly inflammatory) disorders, and is thus an attractive target for the development of novel therapeutics. Although PAR2 roles in other respiratory diseases have been reported, conflicting evidence exists and we have little current understanding of specific PAR2 functions in the complex disease milieu of COPD. This project will use sophisticated experimental model systems and techniques to investigate the role of dysregulated PAR2 activity in inflammatory pathways and pathophysiology of airway tissues. Collaboration with DkIT & QUB will facilitate investigation of novel PAR interactions with airway proteases and ion channels, and their role in key pathological mechanisms. In addition to a diversity of research skills and techniques, further opportunities will be provided for training across a wide range of transferable skills including business, leadership, entrepreneurism and personal effectiveness.

BREATH: This training hub will involve a strong cross-border partnership between the Smooth Muscle Research Centre (Dundalk Institute of Technology; DkIT), the School of Pharmacy and School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences (Queen’s University Belfast; QUB) and the Institute of Biomedical & Environmental Health Research (University of the West of Scotland; UWS). It will establish a world-class cluster of researchers linking clinicians, scientists and industry that will help address the causes, treatment and potential prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Training: will be provided in a wide range of experimental systems and techniques, including in vivo transgenic and ex vivo (airway culture) models, microcomputed tomography (microCT), histology, flow cytometry, transcriptomics and other molecular and biochemical techniques. Successful candidates will be expected to participate in public engagement activities to increase awareness of lung health issues and research.

Eligibility: Candidates should hold, or expect to hold a 1st or 2.1 honours degree (or equivalent) in biochemistry, biomedical science, physiology, pharmacy or another appropriate biological science subject. Excellent oral and written communication skills are important, along with the ability to work both independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.