New molecules and mechanisms in angiogenesis

About the Project

The School of Molecular & Cellular Biology invites applications from prospective postgraduate researchers who wish to commence study for a PhD in the academic year 2025/26. This opportunity is open to candidates who have the means to self-fund their studies or who have a PhD sponsor who will cover this cost. We especially welcome applications that connect to the School's core research areas, which include Cancer, Cell Biology and Structural Biology.

Multicellular eukaryote organisms from fish to man have the inherent ability to form biological tubes which transport fluids, proteins, sugars, lipids, and cells to different tissues and organs. The blood vessel or vascular network is a system of interconnected biological tubes which arises de novo (vasculogenesis) and via sprouting (angiogenesis). Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) binding to membrane proteins with receptor tyrosine kinase activity (VEGFRs) regulates vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. We still do not understand how the endothelial cell integrates signalling, trafficking, VEGFR turnover and gene expression to control angiogenesis. This project will test the hypothesis that VEGFR-VEGF activation and downstream signalling is dependent on specific interactions in a time (temporal) and location (spatial) dependent manner. Better understanding of such events will allow us to better manipulate VEGF-dependent angiogenesis in cancer, heart disease and some forms of blindness. Our previous studies have highlighted a role for ubiquitination (Smith et al., 2017; Critchley et al., 2023) and de-ubiquitination (Smith et al., 2016) in controlling VEGF-A-regulated endothelial function and tubulogenesis. We are also exploring the use of synthetic proteins and small molecules to target membrane proteins and ubiquitin-modifying enzymes in endothelial function and disease states (Roper et al., 2023; Zhu et al., 2025).

The PhD project will undertake detailed studies of the interactions between VEGFRs, membrane-bound and soluble factors which influence signal transduction and endothelial function exploring effects on cell migration, proliferation and angiogenesis. The PhD student will be trained in biophysics, bioinformatics, structural biology, biochemistry, cancer biology and vascular physiology.

Eligibility

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or international equivalent) in an appropriate discipline.

The minimum English language entry requirement for postgraduate research study in the Faculty of Biological Sciences is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.

How to apply

To apply for this project applicants should complete an online application form and attach the following documentation to support their application.

• a full academic CV
• degree certificate and transcripts of marks
• Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable)
• Evidence of funding

To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;

• Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study
• Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert

For information about the application process please contact the Faculty Admissions Team:

e: fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk

Funding Notes

This project is open to applicants who have the funding to support their own studies or who have a sponsor who will cover these costs.