Stem Cells, University of Plymouth, UK

PhD Studentship: Stem Cells: This PhD studentship offers an exciting opportunity to advance the understanding of glioblastoma, an incurable brain tumour, by recreating brain tumours using patient-derived glioma stem cells hosted by normal brain cells. The project aims to develop more clinically relevant models using human neural spheroids and/or organoids, providing new insights into tumourigenesis and therapeutic resistance.

PhD Studentship: Recreating Brain Tumours Using Patient-Derived Glioma Stem Cells

Designation

PhD Studentship in Medical Studies

Research Area

Brain Tumour Biology, Neural Development, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Culture, Confocal Microscopy

Location

Plymouth, United Kingdom

Eligibility/Qualification

• Academic Qualifications: A first or a good upper second-class honours degree in a relevant subject is required. A relevant master’s qualification and/or extended laboratory research experience is preferable.
• Research Experience: Experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell culture, and confocal microscopy is desired.
• Background Knowledge: A strong background in neural development and brain tumour biology is desired; interest in these areas is essential.
• Language Requirement: International students must have a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in any element) or equivalent.
• Fee Coverage: The studentship covers full Home tuition fees and a stipend of £18,655 per annum (2024/25). International fees are not covered; international students must cover the difference between Home and International tuition fee rates.

Job Description

The PhD project will focus on:

1. Developing models towards human neural spheroids and/or organoids.
2. Using these “mini-brain” platforms to generate infiltrative tumours using patient-derived glioma stem cells (GSC).
3. Validating the model as a more clinically relevant system to reveal novel mechanisms of tumour development and therapeutic resistance.
4. Conducting research under the supervision of Dr Jon Gil-Ranedo, Dr Claudia Barros, and Prof José M Almendral.

How to Apply

1. Online Application: Use the online application form by searching for PhD Medical Studies (select the entry point of October 2024).
2. Personal Statement: Clearly state that you are applying for a PhD studentship and name the project at the top of your personal statement.
3. Supporting Documents: Ensure you have read the Doctoral College’s general information on applying for a postgraduate research programme and upload all required supporting documents.
4. Contact Information: For more information on the admissions process, contact research.degree.admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

For informal inquiries about the project, please contact Dr Jon Gil-Ranedo at jon.gil-ranedo@plymouth.ac.uk.

Last Date for Apply

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday, 12 August 2024.

This studentship is a unique opportunity to contribute to significant advances in the field of brain tumour research. Apply now to be part of this innovative project!

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