Understanding the Role of Lipoxidation in Tumorigenic Signalling Aston University in United Kingdom

This fully funded PhD position at Aston University investigates the role of lipoxidation in tumorigenic signalling, focusing on the redox-sensitive tumour suppressor PTEN and its impact on breast cancer cell signalling. The project aims to elucidate how oxidative stress and lipid oxidation products modify PTEN, affecting its activity, localization, and downstream Akt activation. Using advanced techniques such as liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MSMS), western blotting, qRT-PCR, and real-time oxygen consumption measurements, the research will compare tumorigenic (MCF-7) and non-tumorigenic (MCF-10A) breast epithelial cells to identify cellular mechanisms and signalling pathways contributing to cancer progression.

Objectives include determining the effects of oxidized lipid products on Akt, mTORC, and GSK3 activation, assessing PTEN's influence on mitochondrial bioenergetics and mitophagy, identifying specific PTEN modifications and protein-protein interactions under stress conditions, and correlating these changes with cellular outcomes such as proliferation, migration, and invasion. The project builds on previous work at Aston University and offers a comprehensive exploration of redox stress and lipid oxidation in cancer cell metabolism.

The successful candidate will join the College of Health and Life Sciences at Aston University, working under the supervision of Professor Corinne M. Spickett, Dr. Neetu Mishra, and Dr. Lissette Sanchez-Aranguren. The position is based on the Aston Campus in Birmingham, UK, with regular in-person attendance required. Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams.

Applicants must hold or expect to achieve a First Class or Upper Second Class Bachelor's degree (minimum 60% overall weighting) and a Master's degree with Merit or higher in a relevant subject, or a First Class Bachelor's degree plus substantial research experience. Desirable skills include experience in immuno-cell biology, stem cells, extracellular vesicles, wound healing, and mass spectrometry. English language requirements must be met, and all supporting documents must be submitted for the application to be considered.

The studentship covers all tuition fees, provides an annual stipend of £21,805, includes consumable costs, and offers one return economy airfare and visa costs up to £2,500. For further information, applicants can contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at [email protected] or visit the project link provided.