Microfluidic Engineering of Alginate Nanogels for the Delivery of Gene Therapies to the Central Nervous System

While gene therapy is usually performed using viral vectors, non-viral systems may also be used although they are often less effective in delivering expression for the required time period. Our recent work has indicated nanogels may be applicable for the delivery of genetic materials, particularly to the CNS where we have shown suitable expression timeframes. The project will involve the development of microfluidic approaches to develop nanogels as delivery systems for gene therapy. These systems will be used to explore the manufacture, scale up and efficacy of the delivery systems, hence the project activities will range from engineering through to drug delivery and biological assessment. The project will suit a candidate who has a background in drug delivery, engineering and processing and an understanding of the principles and requirements of gene therapy.

Main Methods and Techniques to be employed
Design and characterisation of drug delivery systems, microfluidic approaches, biological assessment of the gene expression.

The successful candidate is expected to commence the programme on 1st October 2018.

This studentship is funded by the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC), and, in accordance with their policies, applications are invited from UK/EU citizens who have been ordinarily resident in the UK for the 3 years immediately preceding the start of Studentship (i.e. October 2018). Candidates must also have no restrictions on how long they can remain in the UK. EU Citizens who have not been residing in the UK for the past 3 years may be eligible for a fees-only award. Please see EPSRC’s website for further details: https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/help/eligibility/
Applicants will also need to meet UCL MPhil/PhD entry and English Language requirements:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/research/degrees/pharmacy-mphil-phd
Candidates should have, or expect to obtain, a first or upper second class degree, or non-UK equivalent, in Pharmacy, or a recognised taught Master’s degree.

How to apply
Applications must only include CV, personal statement, and the contact details of two referees, and should be emailed to [Email Address Removed] by the deadline: 23:59 GMT on 21st February 2018.
The application deadline is 21st February 2018 (23:59 GMT).
Interviews will take place in March 2018 (date TBC)