Steve Watson

[BBSRC-funded PhD studentship via the Midlands Integrated Biosciences Training Partnership (MIBTP), in partnership with University of Warwick, Aston University, Harper Adams University, Coventry University, and University of Leicester.] This PhD studentship at the University of Birmingham, funded by the BBSRC through the Midlands Integrated Biosciences Training Partnership (MIBTP), investigates the role of O-glycosylation in the stalk region of the immunoglobulin receptor GPVI, a key platelet receptor involved in thrombosis. GPVI is a major signalling receptor for collagen on platelets, and its inhibition is a promising strategy for anti-thrombotic therapy with minimal impact on haemostasis. The project aims to map the O-glycosylation sites on the GPVI stalk and determine their functional significance in platelet signalling. Students will use site-directed mutagenesis to generate GPVI constructs lacking specific glycosylation sites, followed by signalling assays to assess their impact. Super resolution microscopy will be employed to study the distribution of GPVI on the cell membrane, and nanobodies will be raised against the stalk region to evaluate their effects on GPVI expression and signalling in both transfected cell lines and platelets. The research is supervised by Dr Alexandre Slater, who specializes in platelet receptor structure, and Prof Steve Watson, an expert in platelet signalling, both based in the Birmingham Platelet group within the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences. The project offers training in a range of advanced techniques, including mammalian cell culture, site-directed mutagenesis, nanobody characterisation, size exclusion chromatography, super resolution microscopy, mass-spectrometry, and platelet biology. The ultimate goal is to identify and develop potent nanobodies as novel anti-platelet agents targeting thrombosis. Applicants should have a strong background in biomedicine, biochemistry, or a related field. The studentship covers tuition and stipend, and is open to candidates who meet the eligibility criteria. The application deadline is 27 November 2025. Interested candidates should prepare a CV, covering letter, references, degree certificates, and evidence of English proficiency if required, and apply via the University of Birmingham's online portal. Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr Alexandre Slater or Prof Steve Watson. For more information, visit the MIBTP and University of Birmingham programme pages.