Self-assembled peptide droplet interfaces for simple screening of stem cell microenvironments and micromanipulation of colonies

Interfaces (solid/liquid, liquid/liquid, air/liquid) can be used to fabricate materials with unique properties and functions. Liquid-liquid interfaces are particularly attractive for the culture of adherent cells as they allow simpler handling of cell culture and recovery of expanded cells without the need of enzymatic detachment.

This project aims to generate a new technology for screening the role of extracellular matrix components in regulating stem cell fate by exploiting molecularly engineered interfaces. In particular, we aim to apply cutting-edge nanofabrication approaches (peptide self-assembly at oil-water interfaces and Langmuir-Blodgett deposition) to control the assembly of polymers, proteins and adhesion of cells at the boundary phase. Then, several characterization techniques (interfacial rheology, AFM, SANS, FRAP) will be used to gain insights on the physical and chemical properties of the layers self-assembled at the interface.

As a proof of concept, this technology will be applied to the culture and differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and the micromanipulation of colonies for the development of advanced in vitro models.

The project will combine complementary expertise from the Azevedo and Gautrot labs on peptide self-assembly and cell culture on liquids, respectively. You will join two research groups with strong track-record in the field of self-assembling biomaterials (Science 2008, Adv Funct Mater 2013, Adv Health Mater 2015, Nat Chem 2015, Nanoscale 2017) and application of biomaterials to regulate cell phenotype (Biomaterials 2010, 2012, Nat Mater 2012, Nat Cell Biol 2010, Integrative Biol 2013, Nano Lett 2014).

We are looking for highly motivated individuals with Biochemistry/Biophysics background. The project will provide a first-class academic training through the use of state-of-the-art experimental techniques, including: peptide synthesis, purification and characterization; peptide self-assembly at the oil-water interfaces; interfacial characterization techniques and cell culture/assays.

QMUL Research Studentship Details
Available to Home/EU & International Applicants.
Full Time programme only
Applicant required to start in Late September/October 2018
The studentship arrangement will cover tuition fees and provide an annual stipend for up to three years (Currently set as £16,553 in 2017/18).
The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good Honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in Biochemistry/Biophysics or related discipline.
If English is not your first language then you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of 6 in Writing 5.5 in all sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking).
International applicants should refer to the following website at http://www.qmul.ac.uk/international/index.html
Supervisor Contact Details:

For informal enquiries about this position, please contact Dr Helena Azevedo or Dr Julien Gautrot
Tel: +44 20 7882 5502; +44 20 7882 5263
E-mail: [Email Address Removed]; [Email Address Removed]

Application Method:
To apply for this studentship and for entry on to the Medical Engineering programme (Full Time) please follow the instructions detailed on the following webpage: http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/subjects/engineering.html

Please include in the personal statement:
1) a brief description of your experience and skills relevant to the project;
2) what you would bring to the project;
3) how this project fits with your future career goals.

Further Guidance: http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/

Please be sure to include a reference to ‘2018 SEMS QMRS HA/JG’ to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.