Dear colleagues,
The position below does not strictly relate to structural biology, but it involves a good amount of protein engineering and biophysical analysis. Candidates with a background in protein biochemistry are particularly welcome to apply. -- 4 Year BBSRC CASE PhD Studentship -- **(UK RESIDENTS ONLY)** Title: Development of engineered proteins that can assist the differentiation of hyaline chondrocytes from mesenchymal stem cells (Available to start from 1st October 2012 or as soon as possible thereafter) Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease caused by loss of hyaline chondrocytes. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) can readily differentiate to chondrocytes in vitro, and are thus a promising source for OA cell therapy. Recent research performed in the laboratory of the lead supervisor, Patricia Murray, has shown that novel biomimetic substrates can induce the differentiation of MSC to chondrocytes, without the need for additional growth factors. Building on those findings, a major aim of this project is to use new engineered proteins developed in the laboratory of the co-supervisor, Olga Mayans, to fabricate biomaterial scaffolds capable of maintaining the phenotype of MSC-derived hyaline chondrocytes. In this, we will work closely with the CASE Partner, Joint Replacement Instrumentation Ltd (JRI), to implement commercialisation strategies for any novel culture conditions, media compositions and engineered biomaterials arising from the project. This project is particularly suited to individuals with an interest in the engineering of biomolecular systems for cellular applications. The appointed researcher will be trained in techniques such recombinant protein production and protein engineering, MSC culture and differentiation, quantitative real-time PCR, immunostaining and confocal microscopy. The student will also gain awareness of working in a commercial environment. The candidate should have obtained a good BSc degree and/or a Master’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology or a related area. Basic familiarity with the production of proteins or the handling of cells will be of advantage. A motivation letter and CV should be sent to [email protected]. Dept/School: Institutes of Translational Medicine and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Academic Supervisors: Dr Patricia Murray ([email protected]) Dr Olga Mayans ([email protected]) Industrial Supervisors Dr Anita Czenkusz ([email protected]) Dr Edward Draper ([email protected]) Funding Availability: FullyFunded PhD project (UK Students Only)
