Effects of human stem cell secretomes and extracellular vesicles on invertebrate models of regeneration

About the Project

Project Overview:

This project will explore the regenerative potential of secretomes derived from human mesenchymal stem cells and human neural crest-derived stem cells on invertebrate models. Secretomes, composed of a variety of cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular vesicles (EVs), are key players in cellular communication and tissue regeneration. EVs are lipid bilayer-delimited particles naturally released from almost all types of cells, ranging in size from about 20-30 nanometers to 10 microns or more. These membrane-bound structures serve as important mediators of intercellular communication by carrying and transferring diverse cellular constituents, including proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and metabolites, between cells and tissues.

The project will utilise planaria and other invertebrate models in combination with stem cell secretomes and extracellular vesicles and provide valuable insights into the regenerative potential of secretomes, potentially leading to novel therapeutic approaches for tissue repair and regeneration in humans. By studying the regenerative capabilities of invertebrate models, we can gain insights into the fundamental mechanisms influenced by human stem cell secretomes and extracellular vesicles. Additionally, it will contribute to our understanding of evolutionary conservation in regenerative biology.

The methodology will include cell culture, invertebrate maintenance, state-of-the art spinning disc and confocal microscopy as well as cutting-edge methods for characterisation of extracellular vesicles (e.g., super-resolution microscopy and nanoparticle tracking).

University of Reading:

The University of Reading, located west of London, England, is ranked at 172 globally, according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. 98% of research at the University is of international standing (REF 2021, combining the University’s world leading, internationally excellent and internationally recognised submissions). The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful, award-winning parkland, less than a 30-minute train ride to London Paddington and is approximately 30 miles from London Heathrow airport.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision and training in a number of different forms. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If you need to develop your academic English skills before you start your studies, then the University has an excellent International Study and Language Institute which can help with this.

Eligibility:

• Applicants should have a good bachelor’s degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) or equivalent)/master’s degree in biomedicine, cell biology, pharmacology or a strongly-related discipline.
• International applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional English courses that can help with meeting these requirements.

The University of Reading is committed to a policy of equal opportunities and non-discriminatory treatment for all members of its community.

How to apply:

Submit an application for a PhD via our online application system.

Further information:

https://www.reading.ac.uk/pharmacy/phd

Enquiries:

Prof Darius Widera, email: d.widera@reading.ac.uk

Funding Notes

We welcome applications from self-funded students worldwide for this project.

If you are applying to an international funding scheme, we encourage you to get in contact as we may be able to support you in your application.