About the Project
Supervisors
Dr Patrizia Camelliti, University of Surrey
Prof John McVey, University of Surrey
Prof Ming Lei, University of Oxford
Applications are invited for a 3-year, fully funded British Heart Foundation PhD studentship within the Cardiovascular Research Group at the University of Surrey, in close collaboration with the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Oxford (part of the BHF Centre of Excellence). Both research centres are internationally recognised for their work on cardiac diseases and offer state-of-the-art facilities and core technologies.
Cardiac stem cell therapy shows great promise for repairing damage that results from a heart attack. However for the therapy to be effective and safe it is important that the transplanted cells work in tandem with the patient’s own heart. This project will investigate the functional and molecular behaviour of cardiac stem cells within patients’ fibrotic scar tissue, with the aim to identify novel clinically relevant therapeutic targets to enhance the efficacy and safety of cell therapy for cardiac repair. The successful candidate will be trained in relevant methods and procedures, including cell culture, cardiac electrophysiology, molecular biology/protein isolation and characterization, and advanced microscopy.
Eligibility
Applicants should hold (or be about to obtain) a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject area including; medical sciences, biomedical sciences, biomedical engineering, molecular biology, physiology or related disciplines.
Self-motivation, deep interest in research, ability to think and work independently, fluency in English language and good communication skills are essential.
An MSc in cardiovascular/molecular science with merit or distinction and/or previous research experience in molecular biology or physiology would be advantageous.
Funding
The Studentship is fully funded by a competitive grant from the British Heart Foundation. Funding covers tuition fees at the Home/EU rate, associated research expenses, and an annual tax-free stipend at BHF rates (currently starting at £19,919 per annum) for all three years.
How to Apply
Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Patrizia Camelliti ([Email Address Removed]).
Initial applications must include the following and should be emailed directly to [Email Address Removed]
1. A CV/resume which includes modules taken with grades (or expected grades)
2. A supporting statement highlighting your primary motivation for applying for a PhD studentship and to this project in particular, outlining any research experience and your career ambitions
3. Contact details for two academic referees (include any recent research mentor or supervisor)
4. Certificates and transcripts from all your current/previous degrees
5. Official English Language transcript (IELTS or TOEFL), if applicable
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly and informed of the next stages of the application process. The start date is October 2017.