Angiogenesis is the formation of blood vessels from pre-existing vessels. Angiogenesis is essential for maintaining healthy physiological processes and for the revascularisation of tissues following an injury. Our research group focuses on investigating the molecular basis of angiogenesis and we have recently identified a novel interaction between three cell surface proteins expressed by endothelial cells involved in this process.

The goal of the studentship would be to determine how endothelial alpha5-integrin, beta3-integrin and neuropilin-1 proteins interact (in an identified complex network) to regulate angiogenesis at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels. This project would give the student experience in a wide range of cross-disciplinary techniques, including working with knockout mice, endothelial cell isolation, cell imaging, and tissue culture. The student would learn standard techniques such as western blotting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and the use of confocal microscopy. The project would involve culture of endothelial cells and a variety of migration, sprouting and in vitro assays which model angiogenesis. The project aims to use conditional knockout mice to determine the in vivo function of these two proteins during developmental angiogenesis and following a vascular injury, in varied in vivo models

This project offers students an opportunity to work in a dynamic environment, in a research institute with excellent facilities and resources for undertaking a wide variety of biomedical research. This opportunity for a studentship is available for exceptional candidates with an interest in cell biology, molecular biology, developmental biology, and/or vascular biology.

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP). Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as part of the studentship competition. Candidates will be interviewed on either the 8th, 9th or 10th January 2019.
The NRP DTP offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship (PIPS) during their study. The internship offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.

Ref: (ROBINSONQ19DTP)

For further information and to apply, please visit http://www.biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk or contact Dr Stephen Robinson