UK : PhD Studentship Mechanical Strain of Keratinocyte Stem Cells and Regulation of Stem Cell Migration

Newcastle University - Institute of Cellular Medicine

Reference Code: CL030

Closing Date: 18th July 2010

Supervisors: Dr J Reichelt, Professor N Reynolds, Professor M Taggart

Institute: Institute of Cellular Medicine

Sponsor: Institute of Cellular Medicine/Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University

Duration of the award: 3 years

Keratinocyte stem cells regulate epidermal homoeostasis. Wounding stimulates them to exit their niche, proliferate and participate in wound closure. Recent data showed that keratinocyte stem cells are also activated in hyperproliferative psoriatic epidermis and psoriasis may be provoked by mechanical trauma to skin (Koebner phenomenon). The signalling mechanisms involved in activating keratinocyte stem cells to migrate out of their niche and proliferate are not well characterised.

Keratinocytes are able to sense mechanical strain and transform it into biochemical signals. Mechanical signal transduction implies an intact cytoskeleton as well as cell-cell and cell-matrix contacts. The literature on mechanical signalling in keratinocytes is based on results using differentiated keratinocytes whereas the response of keratinocyte stem cells has not yet been studied. Studies involving other types of stem cells support the hypothesis that mechanical load regulates self-renewal, lineage commitment and migration of stem cells. The aim of the project is to test the hypothesis that mechanical stress regulates KSC function in a 3D context, relevant to wound healing.

The interdisciplinary research project involves biomedical and biophysical sciences.

Value of the Award and Eligibility

The studentship covers UK/EU tuition fees and provides an annual stipend at the Research Council UK rates (was £13,290 per year in 09/10). International applicants may apply but will need to source additional funding to cover the difference between UK/EU tuition fees and international tuition fees.

Person Specification

You should have, or expect to achieve an MSc or MRes in a relevant biological sciences subject. This studentship is available to UK, EU or international students. If English is not your first language you must have an IELTS or equivalent of 7.0 or above.

How to Apply

You must complete the University's postgraduate application form. Select Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Sciences) - Cellular Medicine" as the programme of study. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement required) but you must attach a copy of your CV and a covering letter, quoting the title of the studentship and reference number CL030.

Closing date for applications 18th July 2010

Further Information

For further details, please contact Dr Julia Reichelt, julia.reichelt@ncl.ac.uk, +44 (0) 191 222 5074.