Viscoelastic regulation of stromal mechanotransduction in ageing lymph nodes: impact on immune function

About the Project

As we age, the functionality of our immune system decreases, leading to increased vulnerability to infection, cancer, and poor vaccine responses. A major contributor to this decline is age-related changes in immune organs, such as lymph nodes. Lymph nodes rely on specialised stromal cells and a dynamic extracellular matrix (ECM) to support immune responses; yet ageing causes these tissues to become structurally and mechanically altered through processes such as fibrosis. Typically, the aging ECM transitions from a soft, viscoelastic matrix to stiffer with reduced viscosity. Critically, how these biophysical changes impact immune function remains poorly understood.

This interdisciplinary PhD will explore how age-associated changes in the biomechanics of lymph nodes influence immune regulation. We will develop advanced biomaterial systems mimicking the mechanical properties of healthy/aged lymph node environments, using 2D and 3D tissue-engineering approaches. We will then use these platforms to explore how mechanosensing is altered during ageing and its impact on immune functions.

The student will be based in the Centre for the Cellular Microenvironment and will gain training in biomaterials design (hydrogels), advanced microscopy, mechanobiology, and immune functional assays. By combining materials engineering, cell biology, and immunology, the project will provide novel insights into how mechano-immunological mechanisms change during ageing.

Funding Notes

Eligibility

Have or just about to gain a first or upper second class UK honours degree or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of science or technology.

This is 3.5 year PhD. The MVLS/EPSRC grant provides for tuition fees, a stipend of at least £20,780 (UKRI rate 2025/26) and laboratory expenses for both Home/International applicants.

Information for International Students when studying in the UK you are responsible for the cost of your UK Visa and NHS Surcharge, this is c£1,500 per year, so over a 3.5 year PhD the total cost could be c£5000-£6000.