PhD Studentship (full time 3 years) – based in Exeter
Ref: UEMS0018: An investigation into the mechanisms of action of incretin based antidiabetic therapies in the human vasculature
Applications are invited for a PhD Studentship, funded by Diabetes UK and based at the University of
Exeter Medical School (UEMS). We are seeking to attract a PhD candidate of outstanding ability to work
between the Diabetes and Vascular Medicine and the Endothelial Cell Biology research groups in an
exciting and rapidly expanding programme of internationally rated research.
This research studentship aims to ascertain whether incretin (gut hormone) based therapies, currently used
to lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, may also benefit patients by improving blood vessel function
and thus reducing the risk of diabetic vascular complications. Increasing evidence, suggests that these
therapies may also have beneficial effects on both large and small vessels in type 2 diabetes, possibly by
improving the function of the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels. The student will investigate this by
utilizing cell culture and myography techniques to examine the responses of isolated human vascular cells
and intact human vessels respectively. This studentship will form part of an exciting programme of work,
varying from clinical studies to basic science projects, which are collectively examining the vascular actions
of incretin based therapies and their potential clinical vascular benefits. As part of this programme the
research student will benefit from strong links with the clinical research teams within University of Exeter
Medical School.
The starting stipend for this studentship will be £15,000 p.a. (tax-free). Applications are invited from suitably
qualified graduates, 2:1 or above in biological or medical sciences. Non UK candidates must also have
IELTS [International English Language Testing System] score of 7 and above (or equivalent qualification).
Closing date for applications: 19/05/13
Start date: 23/09/13
For an informal discussion, please contact: Dr Kim Gooding on 01392 403081 / K.M.Gooding@exeter.ac.uk
or Dr Jacqueline Whatmore on 01392 262944 / jackie.whatmore@pms.ac.uk
How to apply?
To apply please complete an online web form
http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/money/studentships/application/
and upload the following documents – CV, Covering letter (outlining your academic interests, prior research
experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project) and copies of transcript(s) giving full details of
subjects studied and grades/marks obtained.
Funding Notes
The stipend will be £15,000 per annum. Tuition fees will be paid at the UK/EU ‘home’ rate. Candidates from
countries outside the European Union will be liable for the difference between 'home student fees' and
'international student fees’. If you wish to be considered for this studentship you must confirm that you are
able to pay the international portion of the fee. For the 12/13 academic year this is £10,250 but is likely
to increase slightly each year. If you are selected you will be required to provide financial assurances.