At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate AMD risk using stem cell-derived retinal models and cutting-edge techniques.
- Company: Join the innovative Pandora MSCA ITN consortium focused on groundbreaking research.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD, competitive salary, world-class training, and international mobility opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative international team with excellent research facilities and career development support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in tackling age-related macular degeneration at a cellular level.
- Qualifications: MSc in biomedical sciences or related fields; experience in cell culture and molecular biology preferred.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 42000 £ per year.
Fully Funded Ph D Position: Decoding Chromosome 1 Risk in AMD Using Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Models
We seek a highly motivated candidate with
- An MSc (or equivalent) in biomedical sciences, stem-cell biology, ophthalmic research, neuroscience, bioengineering, or related fields.
- Experience (or strong interest) in cell culture, molecular biology, and ideally i PSC/organoid or endothelial/vascular models.
- A drive to solve clinically meaningful problems and work in a collaborative, international team.
- Familiarity with AMD biology, complement/immune pathways, or retinal imaging/assays is advantageous but not essential.
- Master Degree or equivalent.
- An MSc (or equivalent) in biomedical sciences, stem-cell biology, ophthalmic research, neuroscience, bioengineering, or related fields.
- A drive to solve clinically meaningful problems and work in a collaborative, international team.
- Specific Requirements Experience (or strong interest) in cell culture, molecular biology, and ideally i PSC/organoid or endothelial/vascular models.
Familiarity with AMD biology, complement/immune pathways, or retinal imaging/assays is advantageous but not essential.
- Languages ENGLISH,
- researchers who have successfully defended their doctoral thesis but who have not yet formally been awarded the doctoral degree will not be considered eligible
Selection process Doctoral candidates will be selected based on scientific qualification and experience, research interest, additional knowledge/skills and their motivation to participate in an intersectoral research-training program.
Are you passionate about tackling age-related macular degeneration (AMD) at the cellular and molecular level?
Join the Pandora MSCA ITN consortium to investigate how Chromosome 1 (Chr1) AMD risk variants-including the complement factor H CFH Y402H polymorphism-drive intrinsic defects and cell death in photoreceptors, and how these cells crosstalk with retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in health and disease.
The Challenge AMD risk factors disrupt the delicate choroid/Bruch's membrane/RPE/retinal interface, leading to progressive dysfunction and loss of choroidal endothelial cells, RPEs cells, and Photoreceptors in advanced disease.
While Chr1 risk is known to impair RPE (e. g., mitochondrial, and lysosomal damage in i PSC-RPE carrying CFH Y402H), it may also cause direct, cell-intrinsic pathology in Photoreceptors, potentially accelerating degeneration independently of RPE.
This project will test that hypothesis and map the cell-type-specific pathomechanisms and intercellular crosstalk that underlie retinal vulnerability in AMD.
Your Project As DC1 (Doctoral Candidate 1) within Pandora, you will
- Differentiate i PSCs from controls and AMD patients carrying Chr1 risk variants (including CFH Y402H) into Retinal organoids enriched for photoreceptors.
- Profile disease-relevant phenotypes using molecular, cellular, and ultrastructural assays to assess:
- Oxidative stress and mitochondrial function
- Lysosomal/autophagy flux and waste disposal
- Inflammatory signalling and complement activation
- Cell survival, death pathways, and barrier integrity
- Validate findings in human tissue via collaboration with the HEETR eye bank (P1-UT), accessing AMD donor eyes for histological and molecular correlation.
- Model multicellular crosstalk by building RPE-Photoreceptor-choroid co-culture systems in perfusion platforms, enabling dynamic studies of nutrient/waste exchange, complement deposition, and stress propagation across the outer retina.
- What You will Gain
- World-class training in stem-cell differentiation, retinal organoid engineering, vascular biology, and advanced imaging/omics. nei. nih+1
- Transnational mobility and secondments across the Pandora consortium (academia, clinics, and industry).
- Interdisciplinary skillset: from CRISPR/i PSC gene editing and single-cell transcriptomics to microfluidics, proteomics, and translational validation in human tissue.
- Career development: scientific communication, project management, IP/translation, and outreach-core components of MSCA ITN training., gross salary of about £42,000 /year, family support and mobility allowance excellent research facilities comprising state of the art tissue culture facilities, access to multiple core facilities including genomics, bioimaging, flow cytometry and bioinformatics support.
- Eligibility criteria The applicant
- shall not have resided or carried out his/her main activity (work, studies etc.) in UK for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date (unless as part of a compulsory national service or a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention).
- shall not already be in possession of a doctoral degree ().
- can be of any nationality.
Job offer Fully Funded PhD Position: Decoding Chromosome 1 Risk in AMD Using Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Models employer: Newcastle University
Newcastle University is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, encouraging creativity and collaboration among its team members. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to professional development opportunities and the chance to work on impactful projects that enhance the university's reputation. Located in the heart of Newcastle, you'll enjoy a dynamic environment that values innovation and offers a fulfilling career path in the education sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Job offer Fully Funded PhD Position: Decoding Chromosome 1 Risk in AMD Using Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Models
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Job offer Fully Funded PhD Position: Decoding Chromosome 1 Risk in AMD Using Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Models
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Newcastle University that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Newcastle University.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Newcastle University does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle University
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Newcastle University. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
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Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
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Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Newcastle University's culture.
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Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Newcastle University. This shows your passion for the industry!
