Dr J Butcher, Prof F Henriquez
No more applications being accepted
Competition Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)
About the Project
Project Ref: PHDSS1713. In the future stem cell therapies will be key for many regenerative therapies for many conditions, including those of the immune response. Herein, we propose to study the application of nanoscale mechanical stimulation protocols ‘Nanokicking’ to manipulate the differentiation of cells that have immune function, thus impacting on the resolution of different immune conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, immunodeficiency and vaccine development . ‘Nanokicking’ has already been successful in the targeted differentiation of Mesenchymal Stems Cells (MSCs) to bone with huge potential for bone regeneration and bone disorders and we have data to suggest its role in other tissue type development. In addition to providing insight into the immunological mechanisms underpinning human disease, the technology has the potential to provide in vitro models which could be exploited commercially. The candidate will join an interdisciplinary team of enthusiastic scientists, experts in biology and physics. We expect the candidate to have a good knowledge of immunology, immunoassays and molecular biology with an ambition to learn how physics can boost biological applications and have a positive impact on global healthcare. The candidate will develop skills in cell analysis and adjustments of mechanical stimulation protocols to different cell types.
Funding Notes
UWS is an inspiring, vibrant place to study with a growing research community; an important aspect of which is its outstanding and committed research students.
Successful candidates will receive an annual stipend of £14,553 per annum for three years and payment of tuition fees (current value £4200). Applicants are advised that funding will be considered as part of a competitive round and there is no guarantee that it will be awarded.
References
Studentships are open to Home/EU candidates with a first degree in a relevant discipline. Non-EU students can apply, but will not receive the stipend and will be required to pay fees.
How to apply:
Postgraduate Degree by Research Applications should be completed online at
http://www.uws.ac.uk/research/graduate-school/prospective-students/
Applications without all relevant documents will not be considered. Please quote the Project Reference Number.