How does pollution impact skin health? Assessment across global populations

About the Project

Maintaining healthy skin is essential for overall well-being, particularly as the global population ages. By 2050, nearly a quarter of the world’s population will be over 60, making it increasingly important to understand and mitigate factors that contribute to skin ageing. Skin health is influenced by both natural ageing processes and external environmental factors - collectively referred to as the “skin exposome.” Among these, ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and air pollution are key contributors to premature skin ageing, with growing evidence linking particulate matter (PM) in polluted air to structural and functional changes in the skin.

This research project aims to explore how air pollution, specifically PM, affects skin health in individuals with different skin types. Using a combination of laboratory-based skin models and a small clinical study, we will investigate the cellular and structural impact of PM on skin integrity and pigmentation.

Key Objectives:

• Identify the appropriate dose of PM to apply to lab-grown human skin models.
• Compare how skin from donors with different pigmentation responds to PM exposure, using detailed cellular and tissue analysis.
• Conduct a short-term clinical study where volunteers are exposed to PM and/or UVR, followed by non-invasive assessments and skin biopsies.

Methods:

• Lab-based (ex vivo) studies will involve applying PM to human skin models, with analysis focused on ageing-related biomarkers and pigmentation changes.
• An in vivo study will test the effects of PM (with and without UVR) on small areas of human skin, followed by clinical and histological evaluation.

Expected Outcomes:

This project will provide new insights into how air pollution contributes to skin ageing and whether effects differ based on skin type. Findings may inform future protective skincare strategies and public health recommendations.

Eligibility

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum 2:1 Bachelors Degree with Honours (or equivalent) in a Biological Sciences subject. Candidates with experience in human research or with an interest in Dermatology are encouraged to apply.

Before you Apply

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.

How to Apply

To be considered for this project you MUST submit a formal online application form – on the application form select PhD Dermatological Sciences Programme. Full details on how to apply can be found on the Website: How to apply for postgraduate research at The University of Manchester

If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team FBMH.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website: Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI | Postgraduate Research | Biology, Medicine and Health | University of Manchester)

Funding Notes

Applications are invited from self-funded students. This project has a Band 3 (high) fee. Details of our different fee bands can be found on our website View Website