MSc by Research: Using genome editing to study the mechanisms of immune cell proliferation and differentiation

About the Project

T lymphocytes mediate long-term adaptive immunity to viruses and tumour cells. T lymphocytes recognize foreign antigens via specific interactions with the T cell receptor (TCR) that is expressed on the cell surface. Upon antigen-TCR engagement and appropriate co-stimulation, T lymphocytes undergo major remodelling of the proteome and cellular metabolism, expanding in volume by ~3.5-fold and entering a period of rapid cell division cycles. This proliferation is important to clonally expand the antigen-specific pool of T lymphocytes and clearance of diseased cells. The rapid divisions that characterise T lymphocyte proliferation resemble embryonic cell division cycles, in which gap phases of the cell cycle are shortened. However, the mechanisms that control cell division in T lymphocytes are poorly understood.

In this project, the student will use CRISPR/Cas9 gene deletion and lentiviral overexpression of key cell cycle control factors to investigate their role in T lymphocyte proliferation. The student will receive training on state-of-the-art molecular biology and cell biology techniques, including the culture of murine T lymphocytes, Cas9 genome editing, lentivirus generation, and flow cytometry. The student will be embedded in a dynamic laboratory environment, with regular group meetings with the host lab and joint lab meetings with other research groups, providing ample opportunity for networking and feedback. Interested candidates are highly encouraged to contact the lab head directly for more information (tly@dundee.ac.uk).

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

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