PhD Studentship: Functional genomic characterisation of genetic risk for diabetic neuropathy using human stem cell models

Overview

The University of Exeter, through the Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, offers a full-time, fixed-term PhD studentship focused on the functional genomic characterisation of genetic risk for diabetic neuropathy using human stem cell models. The project investigates how inherited differences affect how nerves withstand metabolic stress, specifically examining apolipoprotein E and its variants. The work takes place on site in the United Kingdom and is funded by the EPSRC Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.

Who can apply

The opportunity is open to applicants interested in undertaking doctoral research involving stem cell biology, genome editing, electrophysiology, transcriptomics, and statistical modelling.

What you get

The studentship provides funding for tuition fees and an annual stipend of £21,805 per annum for the 2026/7 period.

Requirements

The project involves establishing sensory neuron and Schwann cell co-cultures from stem cells carrying APOE e2/e2, e3/e3, or e4/e4 genotypes. Research activities include measuring cell survival, nerve fibre integrity, glial ensheathment, and network activity under high glucose or cytokine challenge using microelectrode arrays and patch clamp electrophysiology, alongside conducting apoptosis assays, mixed co-culture experiments, and long-read RNA sequencing.

How to apply

Candidates must submit their applications by the specified closing date.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2026-12-08.