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University of East Anglia
2 weeks ago
PhD Studentship: How does NRP2 keep blood vessels sealed and calm under stress? University of East Anglia in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Inflammation
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of East Anglia
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About this position
This PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia is focused on a fundamental question in vascular biology: how does the endothelial receptor NRP2 help blood vessels remain sealed, stable, and non-inflammatory under stress?
Blood vessels are lined by endothelial cells, which act as a living barrier between blood and tissues. In this project, the student will investigate how neuropilin-2 (NRP2) supports endothelial barrier identity, especially under conditions such as flow, inflammatory stimulation, and lipid/nutrient stress. Preliminary data suggest that when NRP2 is lost, endothelial cells lose the junctional protein VE-cadherin, become more inflammatory, and increase expression of adhesion molecules that can recruit immune cells.
The project will use human and mouse endothelial cells to test how NRP2 regulates barrier stability, receptor trafficking, inflammatory signalling, and the relationship between VE-cadherin loss and inflammatory activation. An endothelial-specific mouse model will also be used to determine whether NRP2 helps blood vessels adapt to dietary stress in vivo.
This is a mechanistic PhD project with strong preliminary data, clear aims, and room for the student to shape the direction of the research. It offers broad interdisciplinary training in endothelial cell biology, live-cell and confocal imaging, flow assays, monocyte adhesion, mouse genetics, vascular physiology, statistics, and data interpretation.
The project is particularly suitable for a student interested in cell biology, vascular biology, inflammation, and the mechanisms that preserve tissue health. It is awarded as a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD studentship, with tuition fees covered, a stipend for living expenses, and a Research Training Support Grant.
Entry requirements: at least a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1, plus English language competence at IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.0 in each category (or faculty equivalent). The mode of study is full-time, and the start date is 1 October 2027. The application deadline is 30 November 2026.
To apply, use the University of East Anglia postgraduate research application portal and submit the required academic documentation before the deadline.
Funding details
Available
What's required
At least UK equivalent of a Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English language requirement: IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each category (Faculty of Science equivalent). Full-time study.
How to apply
Apply online via the University of East Anglia postgraduate research application portal. Submit your application before the deadline of 30 November. Use the provided application link and include the required academic and English language evidence.
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