PhD Studentship - Development of a Cell-based Model to Understand Placental Damage in Pre-eclampsia and Test Novel Therapeutic Approaches

Project advert

Pre-eclampsia is a common pregnancy disorder associated with increased risk of fetal complications such as fetal growth restriction, pre-term delivery and stillbirth. Early onset pre-eclampsia, caused by the failure of spiral arteries to adapt during pregnancy results in reduced blood flow to the placenta and a disturbed pattern of flow. Placental cells in contact with maternal blood called syncytiotrophoblasts are subsequently damaged, by the altered haemodynamics, however the molecular mechanisms are not fully understood and the impact on haemostasis remains unclear.

We aim to develop a simple and reproducible cell-based model to investigate how the changes in blood flow associated with pre-eclampsia damage the syncytiotrophoblasts leading to the detrimental release of factors into the maternal blood. We will also investigate whether altered flow patterns contribute to fibrin deposition. This will further our understanding of the mechanisms responsible for early onset pre-eclampsia and may help to inform new treatment strategies. The model will also provide a novel platform to test new drugs which preserve syncytiotrophoblast function and protect against pre-eclampsia.

Project aims and objectives

The aim of the study is to develop a simple reproducible in vitro model to investigate the effects of altered haemodynamics associated with pre-eclampsia on haemostasis regulation in the placenta. The project will involve establishing a microfluidic system to perfuse syncytiotrophoblasts (differentiated from a trophoblast cell line) under different haemodynamic conditions to mimic maternal blood flow in the placenta in normal and pre-eclamptic pregnancies. The effects of altered haemodynamics on haemostasis regulation will then be determined using a combination of functional assays (thrombosis and haemostasis) and omics techniques. 

Funding

The student will be in receipt of a stipend payment; the Research Council minimum rate (set by UKRI) £20,780 for 2025/26.

Only full-time Home students can apply. Home fees are covered

Specific requirements of the candidate

This cutting-edge environment is equipped with outstanding research labs and social spaces, providing an ideal setting for candidate development.

Qualification: 

• Essential: A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent) in a field related to biomedical science, biochemistry or pharmacology
• Desirable: MSc or MRes in a relevant discipline such as cell and molecular biology, cardiovascular biology, or thrombosis and haemostasis

Skills and Experiences:

• Essential: Laboratory experience and competence in basic laboratory skills; Excellent written and oral communication skills; Great interpersonal and organisational skills. Self-motivated and pro-active with good time management. Good IT skills.
• Desirable: Experience of working with blood and or endothelial cells; Knowledge or experience in molecular biology techniques e.g. qPCR, immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr Sarah Jones (s.jones@mmu.ac.uk) for an informal discussion. 

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Biological Sciences (or download the PGR application form).

You should include your;

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover letter/Personal statement demonstrating a summary of your experience, personal attributes, current knowledge and research skills
• Contact details of two references 
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section, or email the application form and statement to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk. 

Closing date: 17 June 2025

Expected start date: October 2025

Please quote the reference: SciEng-SJ-2025-placental damage pre-eclampsia

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