Investigating the interaction of endothelial neuropilin-2 and alpha5-integrin during angiogenesis; a sticky business. (ROBINSONU18DTP)

Angiogenesis is the formation of blood vessels from pre-existing vessels. Angiogenesis is essential for maintaining healthy physiological processes and for the revascularisation of tissues following an injury. Our research group focuses on investigating the molecular basis of angiogenesis and we have recently identified a novel interaction between two cell surface proteins expressed by endothelial cells involved in this process.

The goal of the studentship would be to determine how endothelial neuropilin-2 and alpha5-integrin proteins interact to regulate angiogenesis at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels. This project would give the student experience in a wide range of cross-disciplinary techniques, including working with knockout mice, endothelial cell isolation, cell imaging, and tissue culture. The student would learn standard techniques such as western blotting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and the use of confocal microscopy. The project would involve culture of endothelial cells and a variety of migration, sprouting and in vitro assays which model angiogenesis. The project aims to use conditional knockout mice to determine the in vivo function of these two proteins during developmental angiogenesis and following a vascular injury.

This project offers students an opportunity to work in an dynamic environment, in a research institute with excellent facilities and resources for undertaking a wide variety of biomedical research. This opportunity for a studentship is available for exceptional candidates with an interest in cell biology, molecular biology, developmental biology, and/or vascular biology.

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP). Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as part of the studentship competition. Candidates will be interviewed on either the 9th, 10th or 11th January 2018.
The Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4 year research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three month professional internship (PIPS) during their study. The internship offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team.
For further information and to apply, please visit our website: www.biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk

For more information on the supervisor for this project, please go here: https://www.uea.ac.uk/biological-sciences/people/profile/stephen-robinson
Type of programme: PhD
Start date of project: 1st October 2018
Mode of study: Full time
Length of studentship: 4 years

Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.