ADC: Molecular profiling of altered cell states in renal ciliopathies

ADC aims to understand how gene variants disrupt function at an organelle, cellular and physiological level in syndromic ciliopathies, using a novel humanized mouse model and matched patient-derivedcells. Focussing on kidney, we will (1) assess altered ciliary content by proximity labelling quantitative mass spec; (2) map altered cell states with spatial transcriptomics and proteomics; and (3) monitor changes in tissue architecture using quantitative imaging from onset of cystic disease. We will utilize AI-driven and ML approaches to integrate how changes in cilia content are related to cellular and metabolic rewiring of the microenvironment during syndromic disease and identify possible biomarkers and targetable pathways that could be explored for future therapeutic strategies.

The UK participates as associated partner, therefore the ADC position will be administered and funded by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Fellow description: Entry requirements: Applicants should hold (or be about to obtain) a UK or international 1st class or 2.1 degree or a Masters in any relevant discipline in biological or biomedical sciences. Check international requirements here: https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/international/postgraduate-entry. 

This project is suitable for candidates with an interest in rare genetic diseases, genomics, cell biology or imaging. A Master’s degree in a relevant subject area and/or lab-based experience in a related area/discipline is very desirable. 

All UEDIN applicants MUST also apply via the online recruitment tool: https://postgraduate.degrees.ed.ac.uk/?id=838&r=site/view&edition=2025, and select the 08/09/2025 start 3 year PhD option to start an application.