MSc by Research: Characterisation of human induced pluripotent stem cell derived kidney organoid system for use in drug discovery

About the Project

Only 5% of all drugs tested in animal models are approved for human applications. Most of these failures are due to unexpected toxicity or lack of efficacy. The poor translation from small mammal studies to humans often causes this challenge. Recent development in obtaining human induced pluripotent stem cells gives a rare opportunity to bypass the animal system. Our lab has established the protocol for growth of kidney organoids. Chronic kidney disease is often caused by high blood pressure and diabetes. We seek a candidate to characterise the kidney organoid system for high-throughput studies.  We will characterise/phenotype the organoid through cell biological approaches. We will assess the effects of organoid cryopreservation on organoid function in this context. Chronic kidney disease and diabetes models may be developed. Ultimately, we aim to employ drug library screening by phenotypic image analysis. A successful candidate will obtain mastery in the state-of-the-art stem cell biology, biochemistry, and in immunofluorescence imaging/data analysis. The successful completion of this project will give insights into improving drug screening processes for humans in a state-of-the-art model cell system.

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.

Please see our website for further details on the programme and how to apply:

Life Sciences MSc by Research MSc by Research (Postgraduate) : Study : University of Dundee

Please note before submitting your application that you must list your top three project choices in the Research Proposal section of the application form.

When you complete your application form, you should include your top 3 project choices, 2 letters of reference, uploaded under "Other Information" > "Supporting documents" and a personal statement. Failure to do so will delay your application.

Please note when submitting an application, please note our intake deadlines on the ‘how to apply’ section of our website.