The impact of micro- and nanoplastics on haemostasis and thrombosis

About the Project

Project Overview

Plastics naturally degrade into microscopic particles over time. While the environmental consequences of micro- and nanoplastic (MNP) pollution are well-documented, these particles are increasingly making their way into the food chain. MNPs have been detected in various human tissues, including the cardiovascular system, with several studies confirming their presence in human blood. Despite this, the effects of blood associated plastics on platelet function remain poorly understood, and the underlying mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. This project aims to uncover how MNPs influence platelet activity and to determine the resulting impact on thrombus formation using appropriate in vitro and in vivo models.

The student will have project specific training from members of the Pollitt lab and the wider Reading Platelet groups. This will include training in a diverse range of subject specific and transferable scientific techniques including platelet preparation, western blotting, flow cytometry, and advanced and intravital microscopy.

The student will be a member of the Reading Platelet Group, which provides a multidisciplinary interactive research environment for several research groups who share regular lab meetings and journal clubs.

School of Biological Sciences, 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 degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent) in Biochemistry/Biomedical Sciences or a strongly-related discipline. Applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional courses that can help with meeting these requirements. With a commitment to improving diversity in science and engineering, we encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

How to apply:

Submit an application for a PhD in Biomedical Sciences via our online application system.

Further information:

https://www.reading.ac.uk/biological-sciences/research

Enquiries:

Dr. Alice Pollitt, email: a.pollitt@reading.ac.uk

Funding Notes

We welcome applications from self-funded students worldwide for this project.

If you are applying to an international funding scheme, we encourage you to get in contact as we may be able to support you in your application.