An opportunity exists for a driven and passionate student to undertake a PhD under the supervision of Prof. Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri and Dr. Kathryn Wolton assessing the impacts of xenobiotics on human placenta development and function.
The role
As the placenta is perfused with maternal blood, xenobiotics circulating in the mother easily reach the placenta. These can accumulate and compromise placental formation and function with consequences for fetal development, and subsequent adult health. Despite this, the placenta remains largely ignored in traditional toxicology studies.
This joint project will exploit the Sferruzzi-Perri lab's expertise in placental physiology and Dr. Wolton's experience in developmental and reproductive toxicology. The project will utilise human trophoblast cell models including 3D cultures to systematically assess the impacts of xenobiotics on viability, cytotoxicity, differentiation, nutrient uptake, and hormone secretion. The potential for synergistic or additive toxicity based on co-exposures with xenobiotics will also be studied. Toxicodynamic data will be coupled with toxicokinetic modelling to understand the exposure conditions required to elicit functional effects on human trophoblast cells. Functional changes caused by xenobiotic exposure will be related to alterations in trophoblast metabolism, oxidative stress, apoptotic pathways, and inflammatory cytokine release. The mechanisms underlying trophoblast alterations will be uncovered through high throughput analyses, such as RNA-sequencing and metabolomics, with targeted validation experiments depending on the findings.
The ideal candidate
This ambitious project requires a candidate with an existing interest in placental physiology, cell biology and/or toxicology. They should be diligent, patient, able to work independently, value quantitative approaches and have a strong academic record. In particular, they should have gained, or be on course for a solid high Second class degree. Prior experience in cell culture methods and molecular biology will also be advantageous.
The team
The student will be based in the Physiology, Development and Neuroscience department (PDN) in Cambridge, but should be prepared to spend some time at the Unilever site in Colworth. We actively encourage applications from prospective postgraduate students from under-represented groups.
The studentship will cover fees at the 'Home' rate, maintenance, research consumables and training costs. Information about University fees and standard maintenance costs for 2024/25.
Fixed-term: The funds for this studentship are available for 4 years.
Applications should include
- Two academic references
- Transcript
- CV/resume
- Evidence of competence in English (If required - you can check using our tool)
- Statement of Interest outlining your suitability, why you are interested in a PhD in this area, your background and research interests.
- School of Biological Sciences - Widening Participation Questionnaire (applicants are asked to complete an additional form to provide contextual information about their previous study. Find out more about our use of contextual information here: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applying/contextual-data.
The deadline for applications is 23.59pm UK time, 9 December, 2024. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interviews during w/c 16 December, 2024 . It is anticipated that the student would begin at the start of the Easter Term in 2025 (17 April, 2025).
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.