PhD Studentship: The Exciting Life of Giants: Single Cell Molecular and Functional Studies of Megakaryocytes

Clotting at the site of an injury is a lifesaving mechanism mediated by platelets.  

It is estimated that a healthy individual produces 1 million platelets every second for this purpose. However, in older people, cancer patients, and those suffering from autoimmune diseases, there can be a life-threatening shortage of platelets. Understanding why could help us develop new treatments.  

Platelets originate from megakaryocytes, one of the largest and most mysterious mammalian cells. These giant cells can have up to 32 copies of the genome and fragment their cytoplasm to give rise to platelets. However, it is unknown if all megakaryocytes contribute equally or if there is a correlation between genome ploidy and platelet output. 

Using RNA lineage tracing, we have recently shown that not all megakaryocyte progenitors produce platelets. Although the main function of megakaryocytes is to produce platelets, growing evidence suggests they have a role in immune defence. This distinct function is assumed to be executed by a subset of megakaryocytes. 

We are offering a collaborative multi-disciplinary PhD project between the Wojtowicz, Macaulay and Haerty groups.  

The aim of the project is to apply single cell RNA lineage tracing, combined with long- and short-read sequencing, to determine the origins – and molecular and functional consequences – of increased ploidy in megakaryocytes.  

The student will work in a rapidly developing field and gain unique expertise in experimental single cell functional and molecular biology, technology development, and computational biology.  

The project will be conducted at the Earlham Institute, a BBSRC-supported, world-leading research centre for single cell technology development, genomics, and bioinformatics. The student will have access to training, peer support, and career development opportunities. 

Additional Information:

The Norwich Research Park (NRP) Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (DTP) is offering fully-funded studentships for October 2023 entry. 

The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme.  

You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers.  

All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. The placement offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development.  

Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team.  

Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply. 

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 24, 25 or 26 January 2023.  

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/  

Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background. 

Primary Supervisor: Dr Edyta Wojtowicz 

Start date: 1st October 2023

For more information on this project, please visit www.uea.ac.uk

Funding

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) PhD studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2022/3 stipend rate: £17,668), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship. Competition Funded (Home and International).