Project details
The global population is aging at an unprecedented rate, leading to a surge in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. The scarcity of effective interventions for these diseases is partly due to the lack of accurate predictive models that can enhance drug development. The challenge is compounded by the fact that a mere 2% of pharmaceuticals successfully penetrate the central nervous system (CNS).
In response to this critical need, our goal is to pioneer a novel blood-brain barrier (BBB) model that accurately represents the aged BBB. The creation of sophisticated in vitro cell models of aging offers a promising avenue to dissect the complexities of this phenomenon, providing a meticulously controlled setting to investigate the cellular and molecular transformations that accompany aging.
This model will be constructed using human cells arranged in a complex three-dimensional tissue-like structure. Our analytical focus will be on the transference of drugs across the BBB, alongside intervention studies aimed at rejuvenating the BBB to a state reminiscent of its youthful functionality. You will become partof a team that is part of the Wellcome Leap project “Dynamic Resilience” focusing on predicting frailty in humans.
Prof. Alexandra Stolzing is an internationally recognised expert in the ageing field and has worked within the University but also in start-ups and has experience in translating research. Dr. Sun Tao is an expert in cell models, quantitative prediction models and bioreactors.
The School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering has seen 100% of its research impact rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ (REF, 2021).
Supervisors
Primary supervisor: Professor Alexandra Stolzing
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Students will normally need to hold, or expect to gain, at least a 2:1 degree (or equivalent) and ideally a Masters degree and/or relevant experience in a relevant discipline e.g. human biology/physiology, biological or biomedical science. Good team working, organisational and communication skills are essential. Experience of work with human participants, particularly older people, will be an advantage. Experience of collecting and handling samples will be desirable but training will be provided.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2024-25 entry
UK fee
£4,786 Full-time degree per annum
International fee
£27,500 Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2024-25 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2024, January 2025, April 2025 and July 2025.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering’. Please quote reference number: UF-AS-2024-1
