PhD Studentship - Mapping Platelet Heterogenous Response to the Alarmin S100A8/A9 using Correlative Super Resolution Microscopy

About the Project

We invite applications from UK home students for a PhD studentship in Cardiovascular Sciences at the University of Birmingham funded by the British Heart Foundation. This PhD project will explore platelet heterogeneity in response to alarmins and other inflammatory factors, using cutting-edge super-resolution microscopy. Platelets, historically considered homogenous, display varied responses that may contribute to thrombotic and inflammatory diseases. This project will map the binding and endocytosis of alarmins on platelets using super-vCLEM, a novel correlative light and electron microscopy technique. The aim is to understand how variations in receptor expression and clustering contribute to platelet functions, including the formation of procoagulant and pyroptotic platelets.

The successful candidate will receive extensive training in advanced microscopy, image analysis, and quantitative methods, gaining valuable expertise in the study of platelet biology and its implications in health and disease. This studentship offers an exceptional opportunity to join leading research teams in single-molecule microscopy as well as in thrombosis and haemostasis, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and multidisciplinary collaboration. This research is poised to advance our understanding of platelet heterogeneity and its role in thrombo-inflammatory conditions, potentially leading to novel therapeutic strategies.

Person Specification

Applicants should have a strong background in biomedical sciences, biophysics or a related field and ideally a background in microscopy. They should have a commitment to research in cardiovascular sciences and microscopy and hold or realistically expect to obtain at least an Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject.

How to apply

Informal enquiries and applications should be directed to Prof Dirk-Peter Herten (d.herten@bham.ac.uk). To apply, please send:

• A detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.

Funding notes:

The project is funded by the British Heart Foundation covering a PhD studentship as well as consumables for three years. Applicants must be UK home students with a 1st class or high upper 2nd class (2:1) BSc degree, or an MSc with merit or distinction, to be eligible for this PhD studentship.

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