Fixing Fragile Skin: Mechanobiology Meets RNA Therapeutics

About the Project

People born with epidermolysis bullosa (EB) have skin so fragile it can blister and tear at the slightest touch—often described as being as delicate as a butterfly’s wings. This rare genetic condition severely impacts quality of life from childhood onwards, and there is currently no cure.

This PhD project will explore a new way to strengthen the 'glue' that holds the layers of skin together. We will examine short pieces of genetic material known as microRNAs, which behave like miniature dimmer switches, regulating gene expression. By altering the levels of a specific microRNA-29, we aim to determine whether we can encourage skin cells to produce a healthier support structure, making the skin less susceptible to tearing and blistering.

You will address a central question in biology investigating forces integrated in genetic regulation that establish and maintain organ integrity, and how can these processes be reprogrammed in disease? Combining mouse genetics, skin biology, and advanced mechanobiology, you will investigate how cells anchor to their surrounding extracellular matrix and why this fails in EB.

We focus on microRNA-29 (miR-29), a key regulator of extracellular matrix organisation. You will determine how modulating miR-29 alters cell–matrix adhesion, using genetic mouse models alongside cutting-edge technologies such as atomic force microscopy and FluidFM, enabling direct, quantitative measurement of adhesion forces at single-cell resolution.

The aim is to define new principles of tissue stability and inform the development of RNA-based therapeutic strategies for fragile skin disorders.

Eligibility

Applicants should hold a minimum upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Genetics, Physiology, or a related field.

We are particularly interested in candidates with practical laboratory experience, especially in:

• Mouse models (e.g. handling, genotyping, basic in vivo work)
• Skin, epithelial, or tissue biology
• Molecular or cell biology techniques

A Master’s degree or current/recent experience as a research technician is strongly preferred. Candidates without hands-on experience in mammalian laboratory work are less likely to be competitive.

How to Apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Interested candidates must first make contact with the Primary Supervisor prior to submitting a formal application, to discuss their interest and suitability for the project. On the online application form select PhD Cell Matrix Research.

Funding Notes

DEBRA UK. Studentship funding is for a duration of three years to commence in September 2026 and covers UK tuition fees and an annual stipend (£25,193 per annum).