PhD Studentship: Clearing the Path to Vision: Targeting Retinal Clearance Mechanisms in Macular Degeneration

Primary supervisor - Dr Linda Troeberg

Are you fascinated by cell biology, molecular medicine and translational research? Would you like to contribute to research that could help preserve the sight of people with macular degeneration?

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join an exciting multidisciplinary research project investigating new ways to prevent vision loss in genetic (Sorsby’s fundus dystrophy) and age-related forms of macular degeneration. The project utilises our understanding of how healthy retinal cells clear harmful proteins to develop innovative drug and gene therapy approaches that could boost the eye's natural "waste disposal" system and pave the way for entirely new treatments. You will also explore how lifestyle factors, inflammation and dietary supplements influence disease progression, helping to answer questions that matter directly to people living with sight loss. The project builds on exciting recent discoveries from our laboratory and has strong potential for real clinical impact.

This studentship offers excellent training in a supportive and collaborative research environment at Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia. You will receive hands-on training in a wide range of research techniques, including mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, protein biochemistry, flow cytometry, microscopy and quantitative image analysis. Alongside laboratory research, you will develop skills in experimental design, scientific writing, data analysis, presentation skills and public engagement.

Your supervisory team brings complementary expertise in protein biochemistry, epithelial cell biology and dietary bioactives, providing an interdisciplinary training experience. As your confidence grows, you will have opportunities to supervise undergraduate students, present your work at national and international conferences, and publish your research in leading scientific journals. The studentship includes a four-week placement with Ikarovec, a biotechnology company developing innovative treatments for age-related macular degeneration. This unique opportunity will give you first-hand experience of how fundamental discoveries are translated into therapies for patients and provide valuable insight into careers in the biotechnology sector.

You will join the vibrant postgraduate research community at the University of East Anglia and benefit from extensive doctoral training through Norwich Medical School and the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Graduate School, with opportunities to develop leadership, networking and communication skills throughout your PhD.

We welcome applications from enthusiastic graduates with, or expecting, a first or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in biochemistry, biomedical sciences, cell biology, molecular biology or a related discipline. Above all, we are looking for someone who is curious, resilient, excited by laboratory research, and eager to make discoveries that could improve patients' lives. If you are looking for a PhD that combines rigorous scientific training with the opportunity to contribute to the development of future treatments for sight loss, we would love to hear from you.

Entry requirements: The minimum entry requirement is 2:1 in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Cell Biology and similar.

Start date: 1 February 2027

Additional Funding Information 

This 3-year PhD project is funded by the Macular Society and open to Home applicants only. The successful candidate will receive tuition fees at Home-fee rate, a tax-free maintenance stipend starting at £21,805 in the first year and £1,000 per annum to support research training. 

Closing Date: 15/10/2026

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