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Extracellular matrix regulation of extracellular vesicles

Funding
Self-funded
Study mode
Full-time
Apply by
Start date
Year round
Subject area
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
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Overview

We hypothesise that extracellular vessicles are important contributors to BM remodelling and that BM remodelling in turn leads to release of matrix bound vessicles. In this project we will test these hypotheses and, also examine the role of the network status of different BM components in these processes.

About this opportunity

Extracellular vesicles are a group of lipid particles secreted by cells as a means to regulate the behaviour of the tissue. Their importance is being increasingly appreciated in many different contexts including tissue regeneration, developmental processes, inflammation and cancer progression. A subtype of vesicle known as Matrix Bound Vesicles (MBV) are, exactly as their name suggest, bound by the proteinaceous network that cells interact with. These MBVs are effectively stored as in the matrix until they are required. The extracellular vesicles themselves can directly or indirectly modify the extracellular matrix, yielding a beautiful but intricate control system which allow dynamic changes to tissue in response to injury or during remodelling.

This is an exciting topic area and there is much still be learned about the control mechanisms that define these biological processes, and how they go wrong in conditions such as cancer or aging.

The specific question we want to address here relates to a highly structured region of extracellular matrix known as a basement membrane (BM). BMs regulate almost all attached cell behaviour through a variety of mechanisms; proving ligands for cell surface receptors, and by presenting a defined biomechanical environment. BMs are also dynamic, changing in their composition and organisation during times of remodelling.

This exciting project has scope to develop in different directions depending on what skills, experience and career path the successful applicant would like to pursue. A background in cell/molecular biology or biochemistry would be beneficial, as would experience in proteomics/transcriptomics. However, all training will be provided. Your supervisory team draws expertise from different disciplines and the successful applicant would be outgoing and dynamic in their outlook, able to push their project forward with their enthusiasm.

Applications are accepted at any time.

Who is this opportunity for?

This project is open to self-funded UK and international applicants.

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How to apply

  1. 1. Contact supervisors

    Applications with CV and cover letter should be made to  in the first instance, and we will arrange an informal chat followed by interview. Only when a candidate is selected following interview will a formal online application be required.

    Project supervisors

  2. 2. Prepare your application documents

    You may need the following documents to complete your online application:

    • A research proposal (this should cover the research you’d like to undertake)
    • University transcripts and degree certificates to date
    • Passport details (international applicants only)
    • English language certificates (international applicants only)
    • A personal statement
    • A curriculum vitae (CV)
    • Contact details for two proposed supervisors
    • Names and contact details of two referees.
  3. 3. Apply

    Finally, register and apply online. You'll receive an email acknowledgment once you've submitted your application. We'll be in touch with further details about what happens next.

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Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)

Full-time place, per year - £5,006

International fees

Full-time place, per year - £31,250

Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.


Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this project.


Funding your PhD

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan worth up to £30,301 to help with course fees and living costs.

There’s also a variety of alternative sources of funding. These include funded research opportunities and financial support from UK research councils, charities and trusts. Your supervisor may be able to help you secure funding.


My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition fees and living expenses.

Duncan Norman Research Scholarship

If you’re awarded this prestigious scholarship, you’ll receive significant funding to support your postgraduate research. This includes full payment of your PhD fees and a cash bursary of £17,000 per year while you study. One award is available in each academic year.

John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for financial support worth up to £12,000 per year for up to three years of full-time postgraduate research (or up to five years part-time pro-rata).

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

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Contact us

Have a question about this research opportunity or studying a PhD with us? Please get in touch with us, using the contact details below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

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