Mitochondria as drivers of disease

About the Project

The role mitochondria play in disease is ever expanding. Due to their fundamental role in ATP production and cell death, amongst others, there is intense investigation to uncover the roles they play in disease and uncovering novel pathways that can be targeted therapeutically. We are interested in the role of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and how they may be drivers of disease. We have shown that mitochondrial reactive species, particularly driven by reverse electron transport at mitochondrial complex I leads to ischaemia/reperfusion injury in heart attack and ischaemic stroke, as well as being important in neurodegeneration, inflammation, cancer, diabetes and aging. In this project, we aim to understand the mechanisms behind mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production in different models of disease to understand the unifying conditions required to drive this. Furthermore, by understanding these conditions, we aim to understand novel therapeutic targets as well as the potential to repurpose approved drugs to counteract aberrant mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production for therapeutic benefit.

Training - extensive training will be provided throughout this PhD on a range of experimental techniques in multiple disciplines. This will include techniques in molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, cell culture and in vivo work. As well as technical skills, presentation skills, public speaking, data analysis, data presentation and academic writing skills training will all be extensively provided.

Eligibility

Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a minimum Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline.

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 xxxx 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 fee. Details of our different fee bands can be found on our website View Website