Applications are invited for a PhD Studentship supported by both EPSRC and the biotechnology company, LGC Ltd (www.lgc.co.uk). This PhD research will be multidisciplinary involving the use of state of the art surface chemistry, analytical techniques and the latest cell biology methods.

Project description

Specific cell types are often required for assays used in the pharmaceutical industry and for therapeutic treatments. Although molecular biology methods are commonly used in cell type analysis, the speed and the damage caused to cells in these processes limits their use in many applications. Thus a method that rapidly identifies cellular status and population purity with minimal invasion offers huge benefits.

This PhD research project will investigate the use of cell surface markers to generically fingerprint the differentiation status of both cell lines and stem cell models. A combination of micro-fabrication, microfluidics and surface chemistry will be employed to produce arrays of protein markers on substrates for high throughput cell screening. Validation of this method will be achieved using a range of fluorescence based technologies in conjunction with state of the art nanotechnologies, especially atomic force microscopy.

The post is based in the Division of Biomedical Engineering in the School of Engineering at the University of Glasgow. It will be co-supervisored by Dr Damian Marshall at LGC’s laboratories in London. The successful candidate will work alongside researchers from a diverse range of disciplines and will develop expert skills in a range of microscopy techniques (confocal, atomic force microscopy, SEM, etc) and an in-depth knowledge of surface chemistry, stem cell biology and molecular biology.

The project will suit applicants with a background in chemistry, biology, materials science, or biotechnology who would like to broaden their knowledge beyond their current discipline.

Eligibility: the studentship is for UK and EU residents only. It will provide a stipend at the Research Council level (~£14,000 per annum in 2011) plus a Case-award top-up of £3000. Candidates should have a first degree (with at least a 2:1 grade) or an MSc equivalent in a relevant discipline.

To apply for this position, please send your CV and cover letter to Dr Huabing Yin as soon as possible or before the closing date. Email: huabing.yin@glasgow.ac.uk , Tel: +44-141-3304109

To apply online or by post, please see:
http://www.gla.ac.uk/faculties/engineering/gradschool/prospectivestudents/howtoapply/