Trailblazers
The Trailblazer PhD studentships have been devised and developed by leading early-career researchers at Coventry University.
Mechanistic insights into Family B G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) using SMA-like polymers
Eligibility: UK/EU/International graduates with the required entry requirements
Funding details: Bursary plus tuition fees (UK/EU/International)
Duration: Full-time – up to four years fixed term
Application deadline: 27 May 2024
Interview dates: Details will be confirmed to shortlisted candidates
Start date: September 2024
For queries please contact Dr Hoor Ayub
Introduction
Calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CLR) is an important family B G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that is significantly under-explored, despite huge therapeutic potential. CLR is associated in neuro-inflammation, heart failure and cancer. The CLR family of GPCRs is unusual as CLR has an obligation to bind to one of three receptor-activity modifying proteins (RAMPs) to form a complete/functional receptor. There is a lack of mechanistic-insight into the fundamental molecular processes underpinning CLR signalling and the roles of CLR in humans.
Project details
The project will address this knowledge gap by focusing on the molecular pharmacology of three distinct CLR-containing GPCRs: calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (CGRP-R; CLR-RAMP1), adrenomedullin 1 receptor (AM1-R; CLR-RAMP2) and adrenomedullin 2 receptor (AM2-R; CLR-RAMP3). Novel genetically-engineered mammalian cell system will be generated to study CLR-RAMPs molecular pharmacology. This will facilitate mechanistic insights, aid the rational design of chemical probes and potential therapeutics targeting CLR-RAMPs in the future.
The PhD student will be trained in state-of-the-art technologies, including: nano-bioluminescence resonance energy
Funding
This is a fully-funded studentship, including tuition fees and stipend/bursary.
Benefits
The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills.
All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.
Entry requirements
- A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
PLUS
- The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a 3.5 years.
- A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS academic overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).
How to apply
To find out more about the project, please contact Dr Hoor Ayub
All applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, plus a 2000-word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.
Apply to Coventry University
