Investigating the role of eye movement in scleral growth

Applications are invited for a three-year full-time PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 01 October 2024

Apply

To apply please use the online application form. Simply search for PhD Health Studies (and select the entry point of October 2024), then clearly state that you are applying for a PhD studentship and name the project at the top of your personal statement.
Online application
Before applying, please ensure you have read the Doctoral College’s general information on applying for a research degree.
For more information on the admissions process, please contact research.degree.admissions@plymouth.ac.uk. 
Director of Studies: Dr Daniela Oehring
2nd Supervisor: Konstantin Glebov
3rd Supervisor: Dr Torsten Bossing
4th Supervisor: Mr Adam Kyte 
 

Project description 

Are you fascinated by how our eyes work and eager to make a difference in the fight against vision problems? Join our research team and help develop a revolutionary model to understand the impact of eye movements on eye health, with a focus on myopia (nearsightedness).
The project:
  • Design and validate an innovative in-vitro model to investigate the impact of mechanical forces on eye health and structure.
  • Explore the fundamental relationship between eye movements, the growth of the sclera (the white part of the eye), and myopia development.
  • Collaborate on investigating existing and novel drugs with the potential to shape improved myopia treatments.
  • Work with porcine and human eye tissues to advance our understanding of cellular responses.
What we offer:
  • Collaborate with leading experts in ocular biomechanics and cellular responses.
  • Master advanced laboratory techniques, including cell culture, and work with a custom-designed mechanical rig.
  • Make tangible contributions to a project with potential for patents and real-world impact.
  • Join a research environment committed to ethical practices and the reduction of animal testing.
We're looking for:
  • A highly motivated MSc graduate (or equivalent) in biology, biomedical engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated interest in vision science, biomechanics, and/or cellular responses.
  • Excellent laboratory skills, ideally with previous experience in cell culture.
  • Strong analytical mindset and a passion for problem-solving.
Please note: this project involves handling porcine and human eye tissues.

Eligibility

If your first language is not English, you must meet the programme's minimum English requirements: IELTS Academic score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each component test area) or equivalent.  
The studentship is supported for three years and includes full home tuition fees plus a stipend of £18,110 per annum 2023/24 rate (2024/25 rate TBC). The studentship will only fully fund applicants eligible for home fees with relevant qualifications. Applicants normally required to cover international fees will have to cover the difference between the home and the international tuition fee rates, approximately £12,697 per annum 2023/24 rate (2024/25 rate TBC). 
NB: The studentship is supported for three years of the four-year registration period. The fourth year is a self-funded ‘writing-up’ year.
If you wish to discuss this project informally, please contact Dr Daniela Oehring. 
The closing date for applications is 31 May 2024. 
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview on 5 June 2024. We regret that we may not be able to respond to all applications. Applicants who have not received a response within six weeks of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful on this occasion.