Investigating the Link Between Cancer, Vascular Inflammation, and Thrombosis

About the Project

Project Overview

Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and its impact extends beyond the tumour itself. An often overlooked aspect of cancer progression is the disturbance it causes within the vascular system, leading to inflammation and an increased risk of thrombosis (blood clot formation). Thrombosis is responsible for a significant number of cancer-related deaths, yet the exact processes linking cancer to blood clotting remain poorly understood.

In this project, the student will investigate how soluble factors released by cancer cells can reprogram vascular endothelial cells, and how these changes to the endothelium increase their pro-thrombotic properties. The student will identify specific tumour-derived proteins that activate endothelial cells, leading to targeted approaches that test if clinically available drugs can prevent endothelial reprogramming and thrombosis in the setting of cancer.

The applicant will receive significant training in key aspects of cellular biology, including primary and immortalized cell culture, flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, cytokine profiling, the use of microfluidic devices, and platelet isolation from human blood samples.

The Roweth Research Group

The Roweth Group investigates the reciprocal relationship between platelets and cancer. Ongoing projects focus on the molecular mechanisms by which platelets control angiogenesis and metastasis, and whether targeting either platelet production or function offers a novel approach to limit cancer progression.

University of Reading:

The University of Reading, located west of London, England, provides world-class research education programs. The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, a 30-minute train ride to central London and 40 minutes from London Heathrow airport.

Our School of Biological Sciences conducts high-impact research, tackling current global challenges faced by society and the planet. Our research ranges from understanding and improving human health and combating disease, through to understanding evolutionary processes and uncovering new ways to protect the natural world. In 2020, we moved into a stunning new ~£60 million Health & Life Sciences building. This state-of-the-art facility is purpose-built for science research and teaching. It houses the Cole Museum of Zoology, a café and social spaces.

In the School of Biological Sciences, you will be joining a vibrant community of ~180 PhD students representing ~40 nationalities. Our students publish in high-impact journals, present at international conferences, and organise a range of exciting outreach and public engagement activities.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision in one-to-one and small group sessions. You will have access to cutting-edge technology and learn the latest research techniques. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If English is not your first language, the University's excellent International Study and Language Institute will help you develop your academic English skills.

The University of Reading is a welcoming community for people of all faiths and cultures. We are committed to a healthy work-life balance and will work to ensure that you are supported personally and academically.

Eligibility:

• Applicants should have a good bachelor’s degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) or equivalent)/master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences 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. With a commitment to improving diversity in science and engineering, we encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

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 in Biomedical Sciences via our online application system.

Further information:

Insert link to department PhD webpage e.g. School of Biological Sciences PhD webpage

Enquiries:

Dr. Harvey Roweth, email: h.g.roweth@reading.ac.uk