PhD Studentship: Metabolic Ageing in Blood Stem Cells

This fully funded four-year PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia explores the fundamental mechanisms of metabolic ageing within blood stem cells. Based in the Rushworth Lab at Norwich Medical School, the successful candidate will investigate why glutamine supply falters with age and whether restoring it can reverse stem-cell decline and immune dysfunction. The project offers comprehensive, hands-on multidisciplinary training in primary cell isolation, metabolomics, stable isotope tracing, and various molecular assays. The student will work alongside expert researchers within a leading life-science hub, preparing for a competitive career in academic or industrial research.

• Perform primary cell isolation and execute in-vivo and in-vitro experimental models.
• Conduct metabolomics and stable isotope tracing experiments to analyze cellular metabolic pathways.
• Utilize flow cytometry (FACS) and LC-MS-based metabolite analysis to characterize cell populations.
• Execute molecular biology techniques including qPCR, western blotting, and ELISA.
• Perform metabolic flux analysis and interpret complex experimental datasets.
• Collaborate with research groups across the Norwich Research Park, including the Earlham Institute.
• Contribute to scientific publications, presentations, and reports detailing research progress.