Key facts
- Type of research degree
- PhD
- Application deadline
- Ongoing deadline
- Country eligibility
- International (open to all nationalities, including the UK)
- Funding
- Non-funded
- Supervisors
- Dr Jonathan Lippiat
- Additional supervisors
- Dr S Clapcote; Dr Katie Simmons; Dr S Muench
- Schools
- School of Biomedical Sciences
The School of Biomedical Sciences invites applications from prospective postgraduate researchers who wish to commence study for a PhD in the academic year 2024/25.<br /> <br /> We especially welcome applications that connect to the School's core research areas, which include Membrane Biology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience.<br /> <br /> We are studying the properties of human ion channels, primarily potassium channels, that have altered properties caused by genetic disorders. The PhD research project will explore the use of pharmacological agents in reversing the functional effects of inherited mutations that result in amino acid substitutions in the protein. For example, the use of inhibitors to supress an overactive ion channel in either a cellular or animal model of the disorder. These could form the basis of a stratified treatment.
<p>Within our laboratory, we use functional techniques, including patch clamp electrophysiology and cellular fluorescence, to measure ion channel activity and the effects of mutations and pharmacological agents. We also work with structural biologists and medicinal and computational chemists to identify novel ion channel modulators. We also work with colleagues with expertise in animal models of human genetic disorders, as a means for preclinical testing of potential therapeutics.</p> <p>Some of our recent research in this area has been published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(20)30285-6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>iScience</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p>To apply for this project opportunity applicants should complete an <a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/research-degrees/doc/how-to-apply">online application form</a> and attach the following documentation to support their application. </p> <ul> <li>a full academic CV</li> <li>degree certificate and transcripts of marks</li> <li>Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable)</li> </ul> <p>To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;</p> <ul> <li>Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study</li> <li>Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert</li> </ul> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>
Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.
The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study 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. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.
<p>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. </p> <p> </p>
<p>For information about the application process please contact the Faculty Admissions Team:</p> <p>e: <a href="mailto:fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk">fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>