Post Doctoral Research Fellow

About the role

Based in the Faculty of Health, this is an exciting opportunity to join the pioneering Environmental Hepatology group at the Peninsula Medical School, led by Professor Shilpa Chokshi. The group is internationally engaged in cutting-edge research exploring the impact of plastic pollution, particularly micro- and nanoplastics, on liver health. This project aligns with the Peninsula Medical School’s commitment to developing globally relevant, translational research that serves local and international populations alike.

You will contribute to a pioneering project at the forefront of Environmental Hepatology, investigating how biologically relevant micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) contribute to liver disease. Using advanced human models, including patient-derived intestinal and hepatic organoids and precision-cut liver slices, you will explore real-world micro- and nanoplastic exposures and their potential to drive liver injury. With the global burden of liver disease on the rise, and early evidence linking MNP accumulation to cirrhosis, understanding their pathogenic impact is urgently needed. Micro- and nanoplastics are increasingly associated with processes central to liver pathology, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and carcinogenesis. Their ability to act as ‘Trojan horses’, transporting microbes, antimicrobial resistance genes, and toxic additives, raises further concern. This interdisciplinary project brings together experts in liver biology, microbiology, toxicology, and environmental science to develop reproducible methods and generate clinically relevant insights to inform global public health and plastic popolicy.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental science, microbiology, toxicology, and liver biology. You will be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking research environment that values innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact. The project benefits from close collaboration with global experts in marine pollution, nanomaterials, microbiology, and hepatology, creating a rich, interdisciplinary platform for discovery.

You will also benefit from strong clinical and surgical links with the Hepatology Research Group at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust at Derriford, one of Europe’s largest hospitals, providing direct access to patient samples and outstanding opportunities for clinically relevant, translational research.

The Peninsula Medical School is committed to delivering excellence in education and research. With clinical exposure, world-class NHS partnerships, and an Athena Swan Silver Award recognising our inclusive and supportive culture, we offer an outstanding environment in which to advance your academic career. The School is also signed up to the BMA Racial Harassment Charter which offers guidance and best practice to address the unacceptable barriers faced by BAME students as they negotiate their different learning environments.

For the essential and desirable criteria please click the apply button.

For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Professor Shilpa Chokshi by email at shilpa.chokshi@plymouth.ac.uk

The successful candidate may be required to obtain an ATAS Certificate prior to this research being undertaken.

For more information on Peninsula Medical School please visit our dedicated webpage at https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools

Due to the nature of the role, unfortunately we are unable to accommodate working from home.

Anticipated Interview Date week commencing 23 June 2025.

Closing date: 12 midnight, Monday 9 June 2025

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