This research project investigates the role of SLC12A9, a newly found lysosomal ammonium transporter, in regulating ammonia metabolism within clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). By modifying SLC12A9 expression in ccRCC cells, the study aims to assess its effects on cell proliferation and metabolic pathways. Utilizing advanced techniques such as flow cytometry, LC-MS, and RNA sequencing, the project seeks to understand how SLC12A9 influences tumor growth and survival. This could lead to new insights into ccRCC pathology and potentially identify novel therapeutic targets aimed at disrupting ammonia-related cancer metabolism.

For more information about doctoral scholarship and PhD programme at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), please visit:

https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/admissions/global/entry-requirements/

https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/admissions/global/fees-and-scholarship

Supervisors:

• Principal supervisor: Dr. Weiwei Dai (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Professor Zhiliang Lv (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Professor Michael Clague (UoL)

Requirements:

The candidate should have a first-class honours degree, or a master’s degree (or equivalent qualification), in Biology/Biochemistry/Nutrition & Metabolism.

Evidence of good spoken and written English is essential. The candidate should have an IELTS score of 6.5 or above, if the first language is not English. This position is open to all qualified candidates irrespective of nationality.

Degree:

The student will be awarded a PhD degree from the University of Liverpool (UK) upon successful completion of the program.

Funding:

The PhD studentship is available for three years subject to satisfactory progress by the student. The award covers tuition fees for three years (currently equivalent to RMB 99,000 per annum). It also provides up to RMB 16,500 to allow participation at international conferences during the period of the award. The scholarship holder is expected to carry out the major part of his or her research at XJTLU in Suzhou, China. However, he or she is eligible for a research study visit to the University of Liverpool up to six months, if this is required by the project.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are advised to email [email protected] the following documents for initial review and assessment (please put the project title in the subject line).

• CV
• Two formal reference letters
• Personal statement outlining your interest in the position
• Certificates of English language qualifications (IELTS or equivalent)
• Full academic transcripts in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• Verified certificates of education qualifications in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• PDF copy of Master Degree dissertation (or an equivalent writing sample) and examiners reports available

Contact:

Please email [email protected] with a subject line of the PhD project title.

The principal supervisor’s profile is linked here:

https://scholar.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/persons/WeiweiDai

https://connect.xjtlu.edu.cn/group/dai-lab-bio-department