Using CRISPR to study the molecular mechanisms of thrombosis and haemostasis

About the Project

Project Overview:

Platelets are the small cells in the blood whose job it is to prevent bleeding. Under normal conditions, when they encounter a damaged blood vessel they become activated and form a thrombus. In cardiovascular disease platelets can form unwanted thrombi which block blood vessels, or break away (embolise) causing blockages elsewhere. This can cause a heart attack or stroke.

Understanding how platelets become activated is key to developing new drugs to prevent these life-threatening conditions. However, as platelets lack a nucleus, research into platelet proteins can only go so far without the use of mouse models. This project will use a different approach, instead using CRISPR gene editing technology to modify platelet proteins to study their function in humanised cell-line models, without the need to generate mutant mouse lines.

Reading Platelet Group:

The Reading Platelet Group is part of the Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research and is formed from the laboratories of 5 Principal Investigators, all collaborating on several projects. We provide a multidisciplinary interactive research environment; an excellent opportunity for training in a wide range of basic molecular and cell biology methods including flow cytometry, immunoprecipitation, functional assays such as platelet aggregometry and real-time flow-adhesion, as well as specialist training in microscopy techniques such as confocal and super-resolution microscopy.

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 and 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 Biomedical Sciences or a strongly-related discipline. Applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer Our Pre-sessional English courses - Global Academy, University of Reading which can help with meeting these requirements.

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 Craig Hughes (c.e.hughes@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.