Project Advert
For some background, note that poor management of asthma affects patient quality of life, causes excessive financial burden on health systems, and is linked with asthma deaths. The airway epithelium is the first defense barrier against exogenous respirable particles and pathogens, including influenza A H1N1 virus, which causes asthma exacerbations. The airway epithelium of asthma patients undergoes structural changes as part of airway remodeling, which combined with functional abnormalities contribute to asthma pathophysiology. Epigenetic factors in particular play an important role in asthma pathogenesis since neither genetic nor environmental factors can fully explain the aetiology of the disease.
Our recent work has shown distinct functions of a specific epigenetic factor, microRNA, in response to different models of respiratory infections in models of bronchial and alveolar epithelial cells. Further, we showed that the expression of a specific microRNA and its downstream targets, with an important role in epithelial remodeling, differ in epithelial cells obtained from asthma patients after influenza infection.
Project Aims and Objectives
The aim of this PhD project is to use state-of-the-art techniques in the laboratory to investigate epigenetic regulatory mechanisms including microRNAs to understand molecular mechanisms responsible for airway epithelial abnormalities in asthma patients, both at baseline and after common respiratory infections, such as influenza infection.
During this project, the candidate will learn and use a wide range of novel techniques, including advanced and translational cell culture techniques and infection, epigenetics, genomics, and protein detection techniques, ex vivo. Using these innovative approaches, we will detect the functional roles of microRNAs in epithelial cells as a regulatory factor of airway epithelial remodeling in asthma patients after influenza A H1N1 infection.
Specific Requirements of the Candidate
Qualifications:
* Essential: A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent) in a field related to Biomedical Science, Biosciences, Immunology, or Virology.
* Desirable: MSc or MRes in a relevant discipline such as Cell and Molecular Biology, Immunology, or Virology.
Skills and Experiences:
* Essential:
o Good laboratory skills.
o Excellent written and oral communication skills.
o Great interpersonal and organizational skills.
o Proactive and interested in learning laboratory skills.
o Ability to work as a team member and independently.
o Good IT skills.
* Desirable:
o Familiarity with epithelial cell culture conditions and models.
o Knowledge or experience in molecular biology techniques.
Further Information
Interested applicants should contact Dr. Fatemeh Moheimani (f.moheimani@mmu.ac.uk) for an informal discussion.
To apply, you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Biological Sciences (or download the PGR application form).
You should include:
* Curriculum Vitae (CV) (2 pages maximum)
* Cover letter/Personal statement demonstrating a summary of your experience, personal attributes, current knowledge, and research skills (1 page maximum)
* Two recent references
* Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date
If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section or email the application form and statement to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk.
Please note that Home fees are covered. Eligible International students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding.
Expected start date: Monday 7th April 2025
Please quote the reference: SciEng-BioSci-FM-2025-Asthma
#J-18808-Ljbffr