About the Project

Unlock the secrets of stem cell function using cutting-edge CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and transcriptomics. This exciting PhD will explore how post-transcriptional gene regulation shapes stem cell behaviour, providing insights for regenerative medicine while developing advanced skills in molecular biology, bioinformatics and data analysis.

Background:

Stem cells are critical biological precursors, which can give rise to a wide variety of different cell types and offer considerable potential in regenerative medicine. This project aims to understand how the post-transcriptional regulation of genes is able to influence the ability of stem cells to function. This understanding will help us to better manipulate stem cells for therapeutic purposes and to identify markers of stem cell function that could be used in the treatment of chronic diseases.

Objectives:

The project will employ a CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing approach, to develop stem cells models that have impaired post-transcriptional gene control. Both pluripotent and multipoint cell models will be characterised, including embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells and adult mesenchyme-derived stem cells.

The project would be suitable for a motivated student who wishes to develop skills in molecular biology, cell culture and transcriptomic data handling. It is an excellent opportunity to perform research using cutting edge technologies in an under-developed area of stem cell biology. You will be supervised by a team based in Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Sciences in the Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences at the University of Liverpool. The supervisors have wide-ranging expertise and will provide training and support in all relevant laboratory and analysis techniques. Furthermore, all postgraduate students undertake a programme of post graduate researcher development, which aims to enhance their skills for a successful research experience and career.

The Institute of Life Course and Medical Science is fully committed to promoting gender equality in all activities. It aims to foster a supportive working environment and holds a silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of its on-going commitment to this.

Other Training to be given:

As part of their degree registration, the student will have access to the Liverpool Doctoral College and its training resources including lectures on time management, team building, career development as well as thesis writing support and viva practice. Other modules such as study design and statistical training are available through the Department of Biostatistics at Liverpool. The student will be a member of the Comparative Musculoskeletal disease group at the Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences. This research environment will provide a great opportunity for the PhD student to learn new skills in study design, participate in clinical related research, bioinformatics, data analysis and preparing work for publication

Enquiries to: Informal enquiries to Dr Simon Tew on tew@liverpool.ac.uk

To apply: please send your CV and a covering letter to tew@liverpool.ac.uk with a copy to ilcamspgradmin@liverpool.ac.uk