Understanding and Detecting Inflammatory Tubular Cells in Kidney Disease – 4-Year PhD Studentship University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom

This four-year PhD studentship, funded by Medical Research Scotland, offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the role of inflammatory tubular cells in chronic kidney disease (CKD) at the University of Edinburgh, in partnership with Medtechtomarket Consulting Ltd. CKD affects a significant portion of the population and often leads to end-stage kidney disease, requiring dialysis or transplantation. The project aims to understand how a subset of kidney tubular epithelial cells adopt a persistent inflammatory state, contributing to kidney fibrosis and disease progression.

The research will test the hypothesis that inflammatory tubular cells are central drivers of CKD progression and may serve as novel therapeutic targets. Using patient samples, the student will define the emergence and spatial distribution of these cells across various disease settings, develop non-invasive urine-based detection methods, and establish experimental models to support future drug discovery. Key aims include quantifying inflammatory, injured, and healthy tubular cells in kidney biopsies, identifying urinary biomarkers that reflect disease burden, and developing high-throughput assays for drug screening.

The student will receive comprehensive training in immunohistochemistry, advanced imaging, image analysis, proteomics, bioinformatics, statistical analysis, and cell culture. The Institute for Regeneration and Repair provides a vibrant translational research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, a placement with Medtechtomarket will offer valuable industry experience in assay development and commercialisation.

Funding includes an annual tax-free stipend (£21,416 rising to £21,991), tuition fees at home (UK) rates, consumables, and a generous travel allowance. International students are welcome but must secure a fee waiver or cover the difference between home and international tuition rates. Applicants should have a first class or 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject and demonstrate outstanding academic merit and research potential.

Applications must be submitted via the University of Edinburgh's EUCLID system. Select 'PhD Inflammation- 3 Years (Full-time)' but note this is a 4-year studentship, and choose 1st October 2026 as the preferred start date. Required documents include a CV, contact details for two academic referees, and a covering letter outlining your interest and suitability. Interviews are expected 3-4 weeks after the application deadline, with the studentship commencing on 1 October 2026.

For further information, contact Dr David Baird at [email protected]. More details and references can be found at the project and supervisor profile links provided.