programming the stem cells to become blood cells. This method generates highly pure cell harvest with large quantities of blood cells to the point that they are now setting up clinical trials to assess these cells in human volunteers.
Research Focus
The main focus of the Ghevaert group’s research is the production of blood cells for human use, namely red cells and platelets. They have developed a particular expertise in the production of these cell types from human pluripotent stem cells using methodologies that are compatible with the production of clinical grade products within the constraints of affordable manufacturing processes. To this end they are combining cellular programming through knowledge and manipulation of transcription factor networks and the creation of 3D biocompatible niches and bioreactors.
As a consultant haematologist for the NHS Blood and Transplant (a partner organisation of the University of Cambridge), Cedric has expertise recognised world-wide in carrying out first-in-man studies of manufactured blood cell survival and recovery in human volunteers. The RESTORE trial carried out in partnership with NHSBT, the Clinical Research Facility (Cambridge University NHS Foundation Trust) and Guy’s Hospital Radiopharmacy looks at survival of manufactured red cells post-transfusion is due to complete in 2024.
To Apply:
We encourage prospective PhD students to reach out directly to Professor Ghevaert, cg348@cam.ac.uk to discuss potential projects and supervision.
Applicants must secure the support of a Supervisor within a laboratory before submitting an application. Please contact the project Supervisor(s) to discuss potential supervision, proposed research project and funding options, which should then be used to write your formal application.
Applications will be submitted to the 'PhD in Stem Cell Biology' and full course details can be found at https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/blscpdscp
Funding Notes
This is not a core-funded PhD programme, and candidates are therefore required to secure their own funding.
Please visit Postgraduate Funding | Cambridge Stem Cell Institute for funding available via the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute.
Funding options should be discussed on an individual basis with the proposed Supervisor before submitting an application.
Applicants are recommended to apply to the University funding scheme by ticking 'Yes - I wish to apply for funding ' in the funding section of the Applicant Portal, by the funding deadline. You will then automatically be considered for any University funding that you are eligible for.
To learn more about how to apply for University funding, please visit Postgraduate funding | Postgraduate Study
