Molecular characterisation of the immunomodulatory effect of the human host defence peptide LL-37
Project title
Molecular characterisation of the immunomodulatory effect of the human host defence peptide LL-37
A Ph.D. studentship (3.5 years) is available from September 2023 under the supervision of Professor Sandra Sacre (Brighton & Sussex Medical School), Dr Ben Towler (University of Sussex) and Professor Rachel Simmonds (University of Surrey)
Deadline
Sunday 15 January 2023
Host defence peptides are an essential part of the immune system, forming one of the first lines of defence against pathogens. There are several different families, including defensins, cathelicidins and histatins. Of the cathelicidin family, humans only express LL-37, which is secreted at epithelial surfaces and by several cell types at sites of infection. It is best known for its antimicrobial actions; however, novel immunomodulatory roles of LL-37 are now emerging within both innate and adaptive immunity. LL-37 has been shown to alter toll-like receptor induced cytokine production and promote Th17 differentiation. Due to the varied actions within the immune system, LL-37 has been demonstrated to have wider roles in autoimmune diseases and cancer, in addition to defending against pathogens.
This project will investigate the mechanism of how LL-37 modifies the inflammatory actions of human monocytes under different disease-modelling conditions. Using cellular and molecular techniques, the effect of LL-37 on cell signalling pathways will be explored. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of cellular and molecular techniques (including primary human cell culture, ELISA, immunoblotting, microscopy, flow cytometry, RNA sequencing and quantitative PCR) alongside opportunities to present at scientific conferences and publish their findings.
This is a collaborative project between The University of Sussex and The University of Surrey. The successful candidate will be based at Brighton and Sussex Medical School, which is part of The University of Sussex, but will work with research groups across both sites.
How to apply
Please submit a formal application using the online admissions portal below attaching a CV, degree transcripts and certificates, statement of interest and two academic references.
On the application system select Programme of Study – PhD Biochemistry, entry date September 2023. Please ensure you state the project title under funding and include the supervisor’s name where required.
This Sussex Doctoral School-funded position covers Home tuition fees and a stipend at standard UKRI rates. Applicants with overseas fee status will need to fund the difference between Home and International tuition fees (approx. £18k per year).
Ideal candidates will have a strong background in immunology or cell biology. Eligible applicants will hold a 2:1 BSc in a relevant subject. Candidates for whom English is not their first language will require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in any section.
For enquiries about the application process, contact Emma Chorley: lifesci-rec@sussex.ac.uk
For enquiries about the project, contact supervisor Professor Sandra Sacre: s.sacre@bsms.ac.uk
Apply here >