PhD Studentship: Role of Non-Canonical Autophagy in Liver Lipid Metabolism

This 4-year PhD studentship investigates the role of non-canonical autophagy and LC3-associated phagocytosis in mediating lipid metabolism and hepatic health in response to unhealthy diets. Hosted at the Quadram Institute Bioscience and the University of East Anglia within the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme, the project provides comprehensive training in preclinical in vivo models, cellular and molecular biology, and immunology. The successful candidate will work across multiple research groups to uncover novel therapeutic targets for fatty liver disease and metabolic disorders. The programme also incorporates professional development and a mandatory three-month professional internship placement.

• Conduct independent research investigating the mechanisms of lipid uptake and metabolism in hepatocytes under high-fat dietary conditions.
• Utilize preclinical in vivo models and in vitro cellular assays to study disease progression and cellular degradation pathways.
• Apply advanced cellular and molecular methodologies, including confocal microscopy and spectral flow cytometry.
• Collaborate across multiple research groups at the Quadram Institute and the University of East Anglia.
• Disseminate scientific findings through presentations at academic conferences and meetings.
• Complete professional development training and undertake a three-month professional internship placement during the course of the PhD.