PhD Studentship : Kidney Research UK PhD Studentship: Enzymatic Conversion of Blood Group Antigens in Human Kidneys

Applications are invited for a 3-year PhD studentship funded by Kidney Research UK under the supervision of Dr Sarah Hosgood. The studentship will be based in the University of Cambridge Department of Surgery on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The proposed start date is 1 October 2024.

In kidney transplantation, blood group compatibility is a major barrier to donor¿recipient matching. Patients with more restrictive blood types like type O or B often wait twice as long for a kidney compared to patients with blood group A. Longer waiting times are associated with poorer outcome and a higher chance of patient death. To overcome this barrier, a major research theme of our group is the use of novel machine perfusion technology for the enzymatic conversion of blood group A and B kidneys to O-type. This work has already received media attention: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-62545147.

This studentship builds upon our group's successful initial findings that bacterial enzymes can remove ABO blood group antigens from the vasculature of human kidneys. With this studentship we aim to explore three key concepts with the aim of bridging this basic research to a stronger position for clinical application:

1. Assessing the efficacy of a new enzyme, FucOB, to convert human type O kidneys to a rare Bombay phenotype
2. Understanding the kinetics of blood group antigen re-emergence after enzyme treatment
3. Using an ABO-incompatible (ABOi) model in human kidneys to explore the pathophysiology of hyperacute antibody-mediated rejection.

Interested candidates are encouraged to read the following recent publication from our group: https://academic.oup.com/bjs/article/110/2/133/6677613

Candidates should have (or expect to obtain) a first or upper second class degree in molecular or cell biology or an allied subject. Applicants with relevant research experience, gained through Master's study or while working in a laboratory, are strongly encouraged to apply. Motivation, creativity and intellectual independence are desirable, as are excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively. The research involves some out-of-hours work.

The funds for this post are available for 3 years. Funding will cover the student's stipend and tuition fees at the UK rate. Non-UK applicants will be considered only if they can fund the overseas fees differential or if they are awarded a suitable scholarship.

We have a strong focus on translational research. You will work alongside world-leading academics and clinicians on research that could have real-world impact and meaningful patient benefit. You will also have access to training courses and events at the University and on the Biomedical Campus, as well as taught modules and lectures in relevant subjects.

How To Apply:

Interested candidates should visit the University's Postgraduate Funding Search for more detailed information. The listing for this opportunity can be found here: https://www.student-funding.cam.ac.uk/fund/kidney-research-uk-phd-studentship-enzymatic-conversion-of-blood-group-antigens-in-human-kidneys-2023

Applications must be made via the University Applicant portal, please click the 'Apply' button above.

Apply for PhD in Surgery and then add Enzymatic conversion of blood group antigens in human kidneys as the proposed project title. It is not necessary to contact the supervisor before applying, or to upload a research proposal. The deadline for applications is 6 May 2024.

Informal enquiries can be addressed to Dr Sarah Hosgood, sh744@cam.ac.uk.

Application related enquiries should go to clusterPG@medschl.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference RE41144 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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